Study on the correlation between carotid plaque calcification types and acute ischemic stroke

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Radiology
• Cardiovascular Science

Background:

• Cerebrovascular diseases, particularly ischemic stroke, pose significant health challenges.
• Carotid artery atherosclerosis, characterized by plaque formation and calcification, is a major risk factor for stroke.
• Understanding the relationship between carotid plaque characteristics and stroke is crucial for risk stratification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between different types and grades of carotid plaque calcification and ipsilateral acute ischemic stroke.
• To provide novel insights into the clinical evaluation and treatment of ischemic stroke based on plaque calcification patterns.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 589 patients undergoing head and neck computed tomography angiography (CTA).
• Classification of carotid plaque calcification into 1 to 6 groups.
• Statistical analysis using paired sample chi-square and Spearman correlation tests to assess the relationship between calcification characteristics and acute ischemic anterior circulation stroke.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in baseline data (sex, smoking, blood pressure, lipids, homocysteine) were observed between acute ischemic stroke and control groups (p < 0.05).
• Specific calcification types of carotid plaques were significantly associated with ipsilateral acute anterior circulation stroke (p < 0.001).
• Higher grades of carotid plaque calcification were significantly correlated with the side of acute infarction (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Carotid plaque calcification is a significant imaging marker associated with acute ischemic stroke.
• The findings offer valuable radiological evidence for assessing ischemic stroke risk in patients with carotid atherosclerosis.
• This study enhances understanding of calcification's role in atherosclerotic plaques and its clinical implications.