Post-stroke infections associated with spleen volume reduction: A pilot study.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Radiology

Background:

• Spleen volume reduction and re-expansion are observed in acute ischemic stroke.
• Splenic contraction may result from sympathetic hyperactivity, potentially causing immunodepression via splenocyte release.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if spleen volume changes in the first week post-stroke correlate with infections, lymphocyte counts, and autonomic dysfunction.

Main Methods:

• Spleen size was measured using abdominal CT scans on days one and seven post-stroke.
• Spleen size reduction was defined as >10% decrease between scans.
• Infections, lymphocyte subsets, and pulse rate variability (PRV) were assessed.

Main Results:

• Spleen size reduction occurred in 55% of patients with post-stroke infections versus 19% without (p=0.047).
• Spleen size reduction correlated with decreased lymphocytes and higher NIH Stroke Scale scores.
• No association was found between spleen volume change and PRV indices.

Conclusions:

• Spleen volume reduction in acute ischemic stroke is associated with an increased risk of post-stroke infections.
• A decrease in lymphocytes and specific subsets accompanies spleen volume reduction.
• Spleen volume changes may serve as a biomarker for complications after ischemic stroke.