Semi-quantitative SPECT scanning in acute ischaemic stroke

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Nuclear Medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• Ischemic stroke significantly impacts functional recovery in elderly patients.
• Predicting post-stroke functional outcomes is crucial for patient management and rehabilitation planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of semi-quantitative SPECT scans in predicting functional recovery after ischemic stroke.
• To correlate cerebral asymmetry scores with functional outcomes using the Barthel ADL score.

Main Methods:

• Semi-quantitative SPECT scans using 99mTc-HMPAO were performed on 34 elderly subjects 10-15 days post-ischemic stroke.
• Cerebral hemispheres were divided into regions of interest, and asymmetry scores were calculated using activity ratios.
• Functional outcome was assessed using the maximal Barthel ADL score within the first two months post-stroke.

Main Results:

• Asymmetry scores were significantly higher in the hemisphere affected by the stroke compared to the contralateral hemisphere.
• Patients with poor functional outcomes (low Barthel ADL scores) exhibited significantly higher asymmetry scores.
• Total and involved hemisphere asymmetry scores were significant predictors of Barthel ADL scores in linear and multivariate models.

Conclusions:

• Semi-quantitative SPECT scanning with 99mTc-HMPAO is a valuable tool for predicting functional recovery after ischemic stroke.
• Cerebral asymmetry identified via SPECT may serve as an early biomarker for stroke outcome assessment.
• This imaging technique can aid clinicians in anticipating patient recovery trajectories and tailoring rehabilitation strategies.