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Positron CT imaging of an impending stroke
M Itoh1, J Hatazawa, C Pozzilli
1Division of Nuclear Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.
Neuroradiology
|January 1, 1988
Summary
The misery perfusion sign, indicated by low cerebral blood flow, may warn of an impending stroke. This finding suggests a poor prognosis if stroke is left untreated.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Nuclear Medicine
Background:
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA) can precede a full stroke.
- Cerebral blood flow (CBF) and oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) are key indicators of brain perfusion.
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is used to assess CBF and OEF.
Observation:
- A patient experiencing TIA showed significantly reduced CBF (24 ml/100 g/min) in the right parietal cortex.
- PET imaging revealed increased OEF and blood volume at the affected site.
- These perfusion parameters were consistent with the "misery perfusion" state.
Findings:
- The observed "misery perfusion" in a TIA patient suggests a critical state of cerebral circulation.
- This state indicates a high risk of progression from TIA to cerebral infarction.
- The findings highlight the prognostic value of perfusion imaging in acute cerebrovascular events.
Implications:
- The "misery perfusion sign" may serve as a crucial early warning for impending stroke.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of conditions exhibiting "misery perfusion" are essential for improving patient outcomes.
- This case underscores the importance of advanced neuroimaging in predicting stroke risk and guiding therapeutic interventions.