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Revisiting the link between hypertension and hemifacial spasm
Jia-Li Leong1, Hui-Hua Li2, Ling-Ling Chan3
1National University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore, 119077, Singapore.
Scientific Reports
|February 20, 2016
Summary
This meta-analysis found a significant link between hemifacial spasm (HFS) and hypertension. HFS patients have a higher likelihood of developing high blood pressure, suggesting a need for closer monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The association between hypertension and hemifacial spasm (HFS) remains unclear.
- Microvascular decompression surgery shows efficacy in HFS patients with concurrent uncontrolled hypertension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a meta-analysis examining the prevalence of hypertension in HFS patients compared to controls.
- To evaluate the implications and limitations of existing case-control studies on HFS and hypertension.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was performed across major databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Google Scholar).
- Six case-control studies with 51,585 subjects were included in a random-effects model meta-analysis.
- Data was analyzed using Odds Ratio (OR) and presented on a Forest plot.
Main Results:
- The meta-analysis revealed a higher prevalence of hypertension in HFS patients (OR = 1.72, 95% CI = (1.12, 2.31), p < 0.001).
- Pooled analysis included 549 HFS cases, 720 neurological controls, and 50,316 general population controls.
- A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between HFS and hypertension.
Conclusions:
- This meta-analysis confirms a positive correlation between hypertension and hemifacial spasm.
- Close blood pressure monitoring is recommended during the follow-up of HFS patients.
- Further research into ventrolateral medullary (VLM) compression as a potential link to HFS is warranted.
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