Demographic Characteristics and Functional Outcome in Posterior Circulation Strokes

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health

Background:

• Stroke incidence is rising in Saudi Arabia, necessitating research into risk factors and outcomes.
• Posterior circulation strokes (PCS) are understudied, highlighting the need for specific etiological and prognostic investigations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors, etiology, and predictors of functional outcomes in patients with posterior circulation strokes (PCS).

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study analyzed data from 138 patients with PCS.
• Demographics, risk factors, clinical presentation, etiology, and outcomes (discharge and 3-month follow-up) were recorded.
• Statistical analyses included Chi-square, odds ratios, and 95% confidence intervals to identify outcome predictors.

Main Results:

• The study included 138 patients (73% male, mean age 58 years). Common presentations were motor deficit and dysarthria.
• Good outcomes were predicted by male sex, lower baseline NIHSS, and symptom stability.
• Poor outcomes were associated with atrial fibrillation, prior stroke, high admission NIHSS, and symptom worsening.

Conclusions:

• Functional outcomes and predictors in this PCS cohort were consistent with existing literature.
• Significant differences in risk factors and etiological profiles were noted in the Saudi Arabian population.
• These population-specific findings have therapeutic and prognostic implications and warrant further prospective research.