Intracranial atherosclerotic disease

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Vascular Medicine
• Cardiology

Background:

• Intracranial atherosclerosis (ICAS) is a progressive condition causing cerebral hypoperfusion and is a major global cause of stroke.
• Multiple contributing factors lead to ICAS development, necessitating advanced diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the current understanding of intracranial atherosclerosis.
• To review epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, biomarkers, imaging, and management strategies for ICAS.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on ICAS.
• Analysis of epidemiological data, pathophysiological mechanisms, and risk factors.
• Evaluation of diagnostic imaging techniques and current/emerging treatment modalities.

Main Results:

• ICAS is a significant global health issue linked to stroke occurrence and recurrence.
• Current treatments including aggressive medication and endovascular interventions do not fully prevent stroke recurrence.
• Emerging non-pharmacological therapies like remote ischemic conditioning and hypothermia offer new avenues.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive therapeutic strategy integrating medication, endovascular intervention, and non-pharmacological treatments may be crucial for future ICAS management.
• Further research into combined therapeutic approaches is warranted to improve outcomes for patients with ICAS.