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Basilar artery stenosis: middle and distal segments
M S Pessin1, P B Gorelick, E S Kwan
1Department of Neurology, Tufts-New England Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111.
Neurology
|November 1, 1987
Summary
Basilar artery stenosis in nine patients showed good short-term prognosis, particularly with warfarin or antiplatelet treatment. This condition, affecting the basilar artery, often presented with transient ischemic attacks or posterior circulation strokes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Neurology
- Cerebrovascular Disease
Background:
- Basilar artery stenosis, a form of cerebrovascular disease, can lead to significant neurological deficits.
- Understanding the clinical presentation and prognosis of basilar artery stenosis is crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical features and prognosis of patients with middle and distal basilar artery stenosis.
- To evaluate the outcomes associated with different treatment strategies for basilar artery stenosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of nine patients with angiographically confirmed basilar artery stenosis.
- Detailed review of clinical manifestations, including transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and strokes.
- Assessment of short-term prognosis based on treatment interventions.
Main Results:
- Six patients experienced TIAs, with varying symptom clusters including dizziness, diplopia, and neurological deficits.
- Seven patients suffered posterior circulation strokes, with four cases preceded by TIAs.
- A favorable short-term prognosis was observed, especially in patients treated with warfarin or antiplatelet agents.
Conclusions:
- Middle and distal basilar artery stenosis can manifest with diverse neurological symptoms and posterior circulation events.
- Warfarin and antiplatelet therapy appear beneficial for improving the short-term prognosis in these patients.
- Basilar artery occlusive disease requires careful clinical evaluation and timely therapeutic intervention.