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Infectious Agents and Stroke: A Systematic Review

Alia Saberi1, Shahin Akhondzadeh2, Samira Kazemi3

  • 1Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Research Center, Poursina Hospital, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.

Basic and Clinical Neuroscience
|February 14, 2022
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Infectious agents like viruses (HCV, HBV, HIV), bacteria (Streptococcus mutans), parasites (Toxocara, Toxoplasma), and fungi (Rhizopus) are linked to stroke. Understanding these pathogen-stroke associations aids in infection control and stroke prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious diseases
  • Neurology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability globally.
  • Infectious agents are increasingly recognized as potential stroke risk factors.
  • Identifying pathogen-stroke links is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and synthesize evidence on the association between infectious microorganisms and stroke.
  • To identify specific pathogens implicated in stroke etiology.
  • To inform preventive strategies for stroke treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature search of major scientific databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus) up to July 2018.
  • Inclusion of 16 relevant studies after rigorous quality assessment.
  • Independent data extraction by two reviewers to ensure accuracy.

Main Results:

  • Viruses including Hepatitis C virus (HCV), Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), and West Nile virus (WNV) are associated with ischemic stroke.
  • Bacterial (Streptococcus mutans), parasitic (Toxocara spp., Toxoplasma gondii), and fungal (Rhizopus sp.) infections also show reported links to stroke.
  • These findings highlight a diverse range of microorganisms potentially contributing to stroke development.

Conclusions:

  • The identified microorganisms play a significant role in stroke pathogenesis.
  • Preventive measures targeting these infections are essential for stroke management.
  • Further research into pathogen-specific stroke mechanisms can optimize treatment and prevention.
Keywords:
BacteriaFungiInfectionStrokeViruses

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