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Changes of augmentation index early after ischaemic stroke predict functional outcome
Kamil Kowalczyk1, Bartosz Jabłoński1, Mariusz Kwarciany1
1Department of Adult Neurology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland.
Blood Pressure
|May 28, 2020
Summary
A rise in augmentation index (AIx) within a week after ischaemic stroke indicates a better functional outcome. This arterial stiffness marker can help predict recovery after stroke.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Ischaemic stroke outcome is influenced by early blood pressure (BP) and arterial stiffness (AS).
- While BP variability's impact is known, the effect of early AS oscillations on stroke prognosis remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between changes in arterial stiffness markers and functional outcomes after ischaemic stroke.
- To determine if early changes in AS can predict stroke prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Assessed BP, pulse wave velocity (PWV), and augmentation index (AIx) at 1, 6, and >90 days post-stroke in 50 patients.
- Defined outcomes using modified Rankin Scale (mRS): early favourable (EFO, mRS ≤1), early poor (EPO, mRS >2), late favourable (LFO, mRS ≤1), and late poor (LPO, mRS >2).
Main Results:
- BP and PWV decreased, while AIx remained stable within 90 days.
- A rise in AIx between days 1-6 was significantly associated with EFO (OR=1.09) and LFO (OR=1.08).
- A decrease in AIx during the same period was linked to EPO (OR=1.07), with associations remaining significant after confounder adjustment.
Conclusions:
- An increase in augmentation index (AIx) within the first week post-ischaemic stroke may predict improved early and late functional recovery.
- AIx changes represent a potential additional factor for assessing stroke prognosis.
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