Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2026

A Murine Model of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Published on: November 21, 2013
Course of brain damage following malignant hypertension
Jean Sebastien Liegey1, Antoine Cremer2, Ludovic Lucas3
1Coronary and vascular diseases Department, Bordeaux university Hospital, Bordeaux, France. jean-sebastien.liegey@chu-bordeaux.fr.
Abstract:
Malignant hypertension (MHT) crisis triggers widespread microvascular damage, particularly in the brain. Despite recent MRI evidence highlighting acute cerebral injuries during MHT crises, follow-up data remain scarce. This study seeks to fill this gap by exploring how brain MRI markers evolve following acute MHT crisis management. We conducted a retrospective analysis of brain MRI data from MHT patients admitted to Bordeaux University Hospital between 2008 and 2022. Eligible patients had at least one follow-up MRI. Analysis blinded to clinical data was performed to identify markers of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), acute stroke, cerebral hemorrhage, and microangiopathy. Out of 149 patients, 47 had follow-up MRIs. Most were male (72.3%) with a mean age of 48.2 ± 10.8 years. The median interval between initial and follow-up MRI was 228 days. Follow-up MRIs revealed new strokes in 10.6% of patients, cerebral hemorrhages in 4.3%, and no cases of PRES. Additionally, more patients exhibited chronic lacunar infarcts and/or microbleeds, with overall Fazekas scores remaining stable in 66.0%, improving in 31.9%, and worsening in 2.1%. Subgroup analyses based on blood pressure control or follow-up duration showed no significant differences in MRI markers. This study sheds light on the risk of new cerebrovascular events and the dynamic changes in brain MRI markers following acute MHT crisis management. Understanding these changes could lead to improved diagnosis, personalized treatment strategies, and proactive patient care for individuals with MHT.
Insights
Malignant hypertension crises can cause new strokes and hemorrhages, with brain MRI markers evolving over time. Follow-up imaging reveals persistent microvascular changes, impacting patient care.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Malignant hypertension (MHT) crises cause significant brain microvascular damage.
- Limited data exists on the evolution of cerebral injuries after MHT management.
- Brain MRI markers are crucial for assessing acute and chronic changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the changes in brain MRI markers following acute malignant hypertension crisis.
- To identify the incidence of new cerebrovascular events and microangiopathy post-MHT.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of brain MRI data from MHT patients (2008-2022).
- Inclusion criteria: at least one follow-up MRI.
- Analysis focused on PRES, stroke, hemorrhage, and microangiopathy markers.
Main Results:
- Follow-up MRIs in 47 patients showed new strokes (10.6%) and cerebral hemorrhages (4.3%).
- No cases of PRES were observed.
- Increased prevalence of chronic lacunar infarcts and microbleeds; stable Fazekas scores in 66%.
Conclusions:
- Malignant hypertension crises carry a risk of subsequent cerebrovascular events.
- Brain MRI markers dynamically change post-MHT, indicating ongoing microvascular impact.
- Findings support improved diagnosis, personalized treatment, and proactive care for MHT patients.
Related Concept Videos
Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction
Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology
Increased Intracranial Pressure l: Introduction
Increased Intracranial Pressure ll: Pathophysiology
Cerebral Edema ll: Pathophysiology

