Prognosis of patients with severe cerebral venous thrombosis treated with decompressive craniectomy / Pronóstico en pacientes con trombosis venosa cerebral severa tratada con craniectomía descompresiva

Introduction: Despite the highly favorable prognosis, mortality occurs in nearly 2% of patients with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), in which decompressive craniectomy (DC) may be the only way to save the patient's life. The aim of this report is to describe the risk factors, neuroimaging features, in-hospital complications and functional outcome of severe CVT in patients treated with DC. Materials and methods: Consecutive malignant CVT cases treated with DC from a retrospective third-level hospital database were analyzed. Demographic, clinical, and functional outcomes were analyzed. Results: Twenty-six patients were included (20 female, age 35.4 ± 12.1 years); 53.8% of the patients had acute CVT, with neurological focalization as the most common symptom in 92.3% of the patients. Superior sagittal sinus thromboses were found in 84.6% of cases. Bilateral lesions were present in 10 patients (38.5%). Imaging on admission showed a parenchymal lesion (venous infarction ± hemorrhagic lesion) > 6 cm measured along the longest diameter in 25 patients (96.2%). Mean duration of clinical neurological deterioration was 3.5 days; eleven patients (42.3%) died during hospitalization. Conclusion: In patients with severe forms of CVT, we found higher mortality than previously reported. DC is an effective life-saving treatment with acceptable functional prognosis for survivors.(AU)

Introducción: A pesar del pronóstico favorable en pacientes con trombosis venosa cerebral (TVC), cerca de un 2% de estos pacientes fallecen, para los cuales la craniectomía descompresiva (CD) puede ser una opción terapéutica. El objetivo de este artículo es describir los factores de riesgo, las características de las neuroimágenes, complicaciones hospitalarias y evolución funcional, de pacientes con TVC severa tratados con CD. Materiales y métodos: Se analizaron características demográficas, clínicas y funcionales de casos consecutivos de TVC severa tratados con CD, a partir de una base de datos retrospectiva de un hospital de tercer nivel. Resultados: Veintiséis pacientes fueron incluidos (20 mujeres, media de edad 35,4 ±12,1 años); un 53,8% de los pacientes presentaron una TVC aguda, con manifestaciones neurológicas focales como el síntoma más frecuente en el 92,3% de los casos. La trombosis del seno sagital superior estuvo presente en el 84,6% y se presentaron lesiones bilaterales parenquimatosas en 10 pacientes (38,5%). La imagen al ingreso demostró lesiones parenquimatosas (infarto venoso ± lesión hemorrágica) > 6 cm (medida en el mayor diámetro de la misma), en 25 pacientes (96,2%). La duración media del deterioro neurológico fue de 3,5 días; 11 pacientes (42,3%) murieron durante la hospitalización. Conclusión: En pacientes con formas severas de TVC encontramos una mayor mortalidad que la publicada previamente; la CD podría ser una opción terapéutica en ese grupo de pacientes.(AU)

Prognosis of patients with severe cerebral venous thrombosis treated with decompressive craniectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Despite the highly favorable prognosis, mortality occurs in nearly 2% of patients with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), in which decompressive craniectomy (DC) may be the only way to save the patient's life. The aim of this report is to describe the risk factors, neuroimaging features, in-hospital complications and functional outcome of severe CVT in patients treated with DC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Consecutive malignant CVT cases treated with DC from a retrospective third-level hospital database were analyzed. Demographic, clinical, and functional outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: Twenty-six patients were included (20 female, age 35.4±12.1 years); 53.8% of the patients had acute CVT, with neurological focalization as the most common symptom in 92.3% of the patients. Superior sagittal sinus thromboses were found in 84.6% of cases. Bilateral lesions were present in 10 patients (38.5%). Imaging on admission showed a parenchymal lesion (venous infarction±hemorrhagic lesion)>6cm measured along the longest diameter in 25 patients (96.2%). Mean duration of clinical neurological deterioration was 3.5 days; eleven patients (42.3%) died during hospitalization. CONCLUSION: In patients with severe forms of CVT, we found higher mortality than previously reported. DC is an effective life-saving treatment with acceptable functional prognosis for survivors.

El bloqueo interatrial avanzado predice recurrencia de infarto cerebral embólico de origen no determinado / Advanced interatrial block predicts recurrence of embolic stroke of undetermined source

Antecedentes: El bloqueo interatrial avanzado (BIA-a) es considerado un factor de riesgo independiente para infarto cerebral (IC). Nuestro objetivo fue analizar si el BIA-a predice recurrencia de IC en pacientes con infarto cerebral embólico de origen no determinado (ESUS).MétodosCiento cuatro pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado de ESUS fueron seguidos durante una mediana de 15 meses (RIQ 10-48). Los datos clínicos, las características de la onda P y presencia de BIA en electrocardiograma realizado durante el evento índice, fueron registrados. La interpretación de los electrocardiogramas se realizó de forma centralizada y ciega en (XXXX2). La recurrencia de ESUS fue el desenlace primario.ResultadosLa mediana de edad de los casos fue de 47 años (rango 19-85); 50% fueron mujeres. Se encontró BIA en 36 casos (34,6%); parcial (BIA-p) en 29 (27,9%) y BIA-a en 7(6,7%). Dieciséis pacientes (15,4%) presentaron IC recurrente; de los cuales 5 tenían BIA-p y 4 BIA-a (p=0,01;OR 9,44:IC 95% 1,88-47,46). La mediana de duración de la onda P fue mayor en pacientes con recurrencia (p=0,009). En el análisis multivariado de regresión logística, los factores de riesgo independientes para recurrencia de IC fueron: el BIA-a (p<0,001; OR 10,86:IC 95% 3,07-38,46), género masculino (p=0,028; OR 4,6:IC 95% 1,18-17,96) y la edad mayor a 50 años (p=0,039; OR 3,84:IC 95% 1,06-13,88); en riesgos proporcionales de Cox fueron: edad mayor a 50 años (p=0,002; HR 7,04:IC 95% 2,06–23,8) y duración de la onda P (por ms) p=0,007 (HR 1,02:IC 95% 1,01-1,04).ConclusionesEl BIA-a y edad mayor a 50 años predicen recurrencia de ESUS. (AU)

Background: Advanced interatrial block (IAB) is an independent risk factor for ischaemic stroke. This study aimed to analyse whether advanced IAB predicts recurrence of embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS).Methods104 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of ESUS were followed up for a median period of 15 months (interquartile range, 10-48). We recorded data on clinical variables, P-wave characteristics, and presence of IAB on the electrocardiogram. Electrocardiogram findings were interpreted by a blinded, centralised rater at (XXXX2). ESUS recurrence was the primary outcome variable.ResultsMedian age was 47 years (range, 19-85); 50% of patients were women. IAB was detected in 36 patients (34.6%); IAB was partial in 29 cases (27.9%) and advanced in 7 (6.7%). Sixteen patients (15.4%) presented stroke recurrence; of these, 5 had partial and 4 had advanced IAB (P = .01; odds ratio [OR] = 9.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.88-47.46; relative risk [RR] = 4.62; 95% CI, 2.01-10.61). Median P-wave duration was longer in patients with stroke recurrence (P = .009). The multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the following independent risk factors for stroke recurrence: advanced IAB (P < .001; OR = 10.86; 95% CI, 3.07-38.46), male sex (P = .028; OR = 4.6; 95% CI, 1.18-17.96), and age older than 50 years (P = .039; OR = 3.84; 95% CI, 1.06-13.88). In the Cox proportional hazards model, the risk variables identified were age older than 50 years (P = .002; hazard ratio, 7.04; 95% CI, 2.06-23.8) and P-wave duration (per ms) (P = .007; hazard ratio, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01-1.04).ConclusionsAdvanced IAB and age older than 50 years predict ESUS recurrence. (AU)

Embolic stroke of undetermined source: beyond atrial fibrillation.

INTRODUCTION: Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) accounts for 25% of all cerebral infarcts; only 30% are associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). Various biochemical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic findings may suggest left atrial damage and increased risk of embolism in the absence of clinically documented AF or atrial flutter. In this review, we analyse the available evidence on atrial cardiopathy or atrial disease, its involvement in ESUS, and its identification through electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and serum markers and its possible therapeutic implications. DEVELOPMENT: A systematic search was conducted on MEDLINE (PubMed) using the following MeSH terms: MeSH [ESUS]+[atrial cardiopathy]+[atrial fibrillation]+[interatrial block]+[treatment]. We selected what we considered to be the most useful original prospective or retrospective studies and systematic reviews. We then read the full texts of the articles and checked the references cited in each article. We analyse epidemiological and demographic variables of patients with ESUS, as well as recent evidence related to presentation and prognosis and factors associated with recurrence and mortality. We review the contribution of atrial cardiopathy diagnosis prior to the detection of AF and the clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic variables and the biochemical markers associated with its development and its potential contribution to cerebral embolism. CONCLUSIONS: The systematic search of biochemical and electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic alterations can be useful to identify ESUS patients at higher risk of recurrence.

Infarto cerebral embólico de origen no determinado: más allá de la fibrilación auricular / Embolic stroke of undetermined source: Beyond atrial fibrillation

Introducción: El infarto cerebral embólico de origen no determinado (ESUS por sus siglas en inglés) representa el 25% de todos los infartos cerebrales y solo el 30% se asocia con fibrilación auricular (FA) paroxística. Existen diferentes hallazgos bioquímicos, electro y ecocardiográficos que sugieren daño auricular izquierdo y aumento del riesgo de embolismo en ausencia de FA o flutterauricular clínicamente documentados. En la presente revisión analizamos la evidencia disponible sobre cardiopatía atrial o enfermedad auricular, su implicación en el ESUS y su identificación mediante marcadores electrocardiográficos, ecocardiográficos y séricos y sus posibles implicaciones terapéuticas. Desarrollo: Se realizó una búsqueda sistematizada a través de la fuente de información MEDLINE (PubMed), utilizando una estrategia diseñada con términos MeSH [ESUS] + [atrial cardiopathy] + [atrial fibrillation] + [interatrial block] + [treatment]. Se seleccionaron las publicaciones originales de estudios prospectivos, retrospectivos y de revisión consideradas como las más útiles. Se procedió a la lectura del texto completo y la bibliografía aportada en cada artículo. Se incluyeron los factores epidemiológicos y demográficos de los pacientes ESUS, así como la evidencia reciente relacionada con su forma de presentación, pronóstico y factores asociados con recurrencia y mortalidad. Se revisó la contribución de la presencia de cardiopatía auricular previo a la documentación de FA y las variables clínicas, electro y ecocardiográficas, así como los marcadores bioquímicos asociados con su desarrollo y su contribución como fuente potencial de embolismo cerebral. Conclusiones: La búsqueda sistemática de alteraciones bioquímicas, electro y ecocardiográficas pueden ser de utilidad para identificar pacientes ESUS con mayor riesgo de recurrencia. (AU)

Introduction: Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) accounts for 25% of all cerebral infarcts; only 30% are associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). Various biochemical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic findings may suggest left atrial damage and increased risk of embolism in the absence of clinically documented AF or atrial flutter. In this review, we analyse the available evidence on atrial cardiopathy or atrial disease, its involvement in ESUS, and its identification through electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and serum markers and its possible therapeutic implications. Development: A systematic search was conducted on MEDLINE (PubMed) using the following MeSH terms: MeSH [ESUS] + [atrial cardiopathy] + [atrial fibrillation] + [interatrial block] + [treatment]. We selected what we considered to be the most useful original prospective or retrospective studies and systematic reviews. We then read the full texts of the articles and checked the references cited in each article. We analyse epidemiological and demographic variables of patients with ESUS, as well as recent evidence related to presentation and prognosis and factors associated with recurrence and mortality. We review the contribution of atrial cardiopathy diagnosis prior to the detection of AF and the clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic variables and the biochemical markers associated with its development and its potential contribution to cerebral embolism. Conclusions: The systematic search of biochemical and electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic alterations can be useful to identify ESUS patients at higher risk of recurrence. (AU)

Advanced interatrial block predicts recurrence of embolic stroke of undetermined source. / El bloqueo interatrial avanzado predice recurrencia de infarto cerebral embólico de origen no determinado.

BACKGROUND: Advanced interatrial block (IAB) is an independent risk factor for ischaemic stroke. This study aimed to analyse whether advanced IAB predicts recurrence of embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS). METHODS: 104 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of ESUS were followed up for a median period of 15 months (interquartile range, 10-48). We recorded data on clinical variables, P-wave characteristics, and presence of IAB on the electrocardiogram. Electrocardiogram findings were interpreted by a blinded, centralised rater at (XXXX2). ESUS recurrence was the primary outcome variable. RESULTS: Median age was 47 years (range, 19-85); 50% of patients were women. IAB was detected in 36 patients (34.6%); IAB was partial in 29 cases (27.9%) and advanced in 7 (6.7%). Sixteen patients (15.4%) presented stroke recurrence; of these, 5 had partial and 4 had advanced IAB (P = .01; odds ratio [OR] = 9.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.88-47.46; relative risk [RR] = 4.62; 95% CI, 2.01-10.61). Median P-wave duration was longer in patients with stroke recurrence (P = .009). The multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the following independent risk factors for stroke recurrence: advanced IAB (P < .001; OR = 10.86; 95% CI, 3.07-38.46), male sex (P = .028; OR = 4.6; 95% CI, 1.18-17.96), and age older than 50 years (P = .039; OR = 3.84; 95% CI, 1.06-13.88). In the Cox proportional hazards model, the risk variables identified were age older than 50 years (P = .002; hazard ratio, 7.04; 95% CI, 2.06-23.8) and P-wave duration (per ms) (P = .007; hazard ratio, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01-1.04). CONCLUSIONS: Advanced IAB and age older than 50 years predict ESUS recurrence.

Advanced interatrial block predicts recurrence of embolic stroke of undetermined source.

BACKGROUND: Advanced interatrial block (IAB) is an independent risk factor for ischaemic stroke. This study aimed to analyse whether advanced IAB predicts recurrence of embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS). METHODS: 104 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of ESUS were followed up for a median period of 15 months (interquartile range, 10-48). We recorded data on clinical variables, P-wave characteristics, and presence of IAB on the electrocardiogram (ECG). ECG findings were interpreted by a blinded, centralised rater at (XXXX2). ESUS recurrence was the primary outcome variable. RESULTS: Median age was 47 years (range, 19-85); 50% of patients were women. IAB was detected in 36 patients (34.6%); IAB was partial in 29 cases (27.9%) and advanced in 7 (6.7%). Sixteen patients (15.4%) presented stroke recurrence; of these, 5 had partial and 4 had advanced IAB (P = .01; odds ratio [OR] = 9.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.88-47.46; relative risk [RR] = 4.62; 95% CI, 2.01-10.61). Median P-wave duration was longer in patients with stroke recurrence (P = .009). The multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the following independent risk factors for stroke recurrence: advanced IAB (P < .001; OR = 10.86; 95% CI, 3.07-38.46), male sex (P = .028; OR = 4.6; 95% CI, 1.18-17.96), and age older than 50 years (P = .039; OR = 3.84; 95% CI, 1.06-13.88). In the Cox proportional hazards model, the risk variables identified were age older than 50 years (P = .002; hazard ratio, 7.04; 95% CI, 2.06-23.8) and P-wave duration (per ms) (P = .007; hazard ratio, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01-1.04). CONCLUSIONS: Advanced IAB and age older than 50 years predict ESUS recurrence.

Moyamoya disease in Mexico: our experience.

INTRODUCTION: Moyamoya disease (MD) is a progressive, occlusive disease of the arteries of the anterior cerebral circulation that may cause ischaemia or haemorrhage. Patient management aims to prevent new cerebrovascular events through surgical revascularisation and/or pharmacological treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied a series of 17 patients with MD (n = 14) or moyamoya syndrome (MS; n = 3), who were evaluated between January 1989 and December 2016; 11 patients were women and 6 were men. Thirteen patients had definitive MD (76%), one had unilateral MD (5.2%), and 3 had MS (18%). The condition manifested as intraparenchymal haemorrhage (in 35.2% of patients), brain ischaemia (29.4%), subarachnoid haemorrhage (17.6%), seizures (11.7%), and headache with no associated haemorrhage (1 patient). RESULTS: Ten patients (58.8%) underwent revascularisation and 7 (41.2%) received pharmacological treatment. All patients were evaluated with the modified Rankin Scale (mRs) at admission and at the last consultation; mRs scores were significantly lower in the group undergoing surgery (P <  .04). During follow-up, none of the patients undergoing revascularisation experienced recurrences, whereas 2 patients receiving pharmacological treatment did experience a new vascular event (one ischaemic and one haemorrhagic) (P <  .05). No significant differences were observed between the treatment outcomes of different revascularisation techniques. CONCLUSIONS: Although our population has different demographic characteristics from those of other non-Asian populations, ours is the largest published series of Hispanic individuals with MD. Our results support the use of revascularisation procedures to improve these patients' neurological status and to prevent new cerebrovascular events.

Enfermedad moyamoya en México. Experiencia institucional / Moyamoya disease in Mexico: Our experience

Introducción: La enfermedad moyamoya (EM) es una arteriopatía oclusiva y progresiva de la circulación cerebral anterior que puede producir eventos isquémicos o hemorrágicos. El objetivo terapéutico es la prevención de nuevos eventos a través de tratamiento médico o cirugía de revascularización.MétodosSe estudió a 17 pacientes con EM y síndrome de moyamoya, atendidos de enero de 1989 a diciembre del 2016. Trece pacientes tenían EM definitiva (76%), un paciente EM unilateral (5,2%) y 3 pacientes síndrome de moyamoya (18%). Once pertenecían al sexo femenino y 6 al masculino. Su forma de presentación fue hemorragia intraparenquimatosa (35,2%), isquemia cerebral (29,4%), hemorragia subaracnoidea (17,6%), crisis convulsivas (11,7%) y un paciente empezó con cefalea sin hemorragia.ResultadosEn 10 pacientes se realizó una cirugía de revascularización (58,8%) y 7 se manejaron médicamente (41,2%). La valoración neurológica, empleando la escala modificada de Rankin al ingreso y en su última consulta, mostró una diferencia significativa (p < 0,04) a favor del grupo quirúrgico. Ningún paciente del grupo quirúrgico presentó nuevos eventos vasculares, mientras que 2 pacientes del grupo médico desarrollaron uno nuevo (uno isquémico y otro hemorrágico). En nuestro estudio no hubo una diferencia significativa entre los métodos de revascularización, pero sí en comparación con los pacientes que se trataron médicamente (p < 0,05).ConclusionesSi bien nuestra población muestra diferencias con otras series reportadas fuera de Asia, esta es la serie reportada más numerosa para una población hispana. Nuestros resultados indican que los procedimientos de revascularización son útiles para prevenir nuevos eventos vasculares isquémicos o hemorrágicos. (AU)

Introduction: Moyamoya disease (MD) is a progressive, occlusive disease of the arteries of the anterior cerebral circulation that may cause ischaemia or haemorrhage. Patient management aims to prevent new cerebrovascular events through surgical revascularisation and/or pharmacological treatment.MethodsWe studied a series of 17 patients with MD (n = 14) or moyamoya syndrome (n = 3), who were evaluated between January 1989 and December 2016; 11 patients were women and 6 were men. Thirteen patients had definitive MD (76%), one had unilateral MD (5.2%), and 3 had moyamoya syndrome (18%). The condition manifested as intraparenchymal haemorrhage (in 35.2% of patients), brain ischaemia (29.4%), subarachnoid haemorrhage (17.6%), seizures (11.7%), and headache with no associated haemorrhage (one patient).ResultsTen patients (58.8%) underwent revascularisation and 7 (41.2%) received pharmacological treatment. All patients were evaluated with the modified Rankin Scale (mRs) at admission and at the last consultation; mRs scores were significantly lower in the group undergoing surgery (P < .04). During follow-up, none of the patients undergoing revascularisation experienced recurrences, whereas 2 patients receiving pharmacological treatment did experience a new vascular event (one ischaemic and one haemorrhagic) (P < .05). No significant differences were observed between the treatment outcomes of different revascularisation techniques.ConclusionsAlthough our population has different demographic characteristics from those of other non-Asian populations, ours is the largest published series of Hispanic individuals with MD. Our results support the use of revascularisation procedures to improve these patients’ neurological status and to prevent new cerebrovascular events. (AU)

Prognosis of patients with severe cerebral venous thrombosis treated with decompressive craniectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Despite the highly favorable prognosis, mortality occurs in nearly 2% of patients with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), in which decompressive craniectomy (DC) may be the only way to save the patient's life. The aim of this report is to describe the risk factors, neuroimaging features, in-hospital complications and functional outcome of severe CVT in patients treated with DC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Consecutive malignant CVT cases treated with DC from a retrospective third-level hospital database were analyzed. Demographic, clinical, and functional outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: Twenty-six patients were included (20 female, age 35.4±12.1 years); 53.8% of the patients had acute CVT, with neurological focalization as the most common symptom in 92.3% of the patients. Superior sagittal sinus thromboses were found in 84.6% of cases. Bilateral lesions were present in 10 patients (38.5%). Imaging on admission showed a parenchymal lesion (venous infarction±hemorrhagic lesion)>6cm measured along the longest diameter in 25 patients (96.2%). Mean duration of clinical neurological deterioration was 3.5 days; eleven patients (42.3%) died during hospitalization. CONCLUSION: In patients with severe forms of CVT, we found higher mortality than previously reported. DC is an effective life-saving treatment with acceptable functional prognosis for survivors.

Correction to: Features of intracranial hemorrhage in cerebral venous thrombosis.

The original version of this article unfortunately contained mistakes. The correct information is given below.

Features of intracranial hemorrhage in cerebral venous thrombosis.

BACKGROUND: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is associated with intracranial hemorrhage. AIM: To identify clinical and imaging features of CVT-associated intracranial hemorrhage. We hypothesized that higher clot burden would be associated with a higher risk of intracranial hemorrhage. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of an international, multicenter cohort of patients with confirmed cerebral venous thrombosis who underwent computed tomography within 2 weeks of symptom onset. Clinical and imaging features were compared between patients with and without intracranial hemorrhage. Clot burden was assessed by counting the number of thrombosed venous sinuses and veins on confirmatory imaging. RESULTS: We enrolled 260 patients from 10 institutions in Europe and Mexico. The mean age was 42 years and 74% were female. Intracranial hemorrhage was found in 102 (39%). Among them parenchymal hemorrhage occurred in 64 (63%), in addition, small juxta-cortical hemorrhage was found in 30 (29%), subarachnoid hemorrhage in 24 (24%) and subdural hemorrhage in 11 (11%). Multiple concomitant types of hemorrhage occurred in 23 (23%). Older age and superior sagittal thrombosis involvement were associated with presence of hemorrhage. The number of thrombosed venous sinuses was not associated with intracranial hemorrhage (median number IQRInterquartile ratio] of sinuses/veins involved with hemorrhage 2 (1-3) vs. 2 (1-3) without hemorrhage, p = 0.4). CONCLUSION: The high rate of intracranial hemorrhage in cerebral venous thrombosis is not explained by widespread involvement of the venous sinuses. Superior sagittal sinus involvement is associated with higher bleeding risk.

Anaemia at admission is associated with poor clinical outcome in cerebral venous thrombosis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Anaemia is associated with poor clinical outcome after ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke. The association between anaemia and outcome in patients with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) was examined. METHODS: Consecutive adult patients with CVT were included from seven centres. Anaemia at admission was scored according to World Health Organization definitions. Poor clinical outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale score 3-6 at last follow-up. A multiple imputation procedure was applied for handling missing data in the multivariable analysis. Using binary logistic regression analysis, adjustments were made for age, sex, cancer and centre of recruitment (model 1). In a secondary analysis, adjustments were additionally made for coma, intracerebral haemorrhage, non-haemorrhagic lesion and deep venous system thrombosis (model 2). In a sensitivity analysis, patients with cancer were excluded. RESULTS: Data for 952 patients with CVT were included, 22% of whom had anaemia at admission. Patients with anaemia more often had a history of cancer (17% vs. 7%, P < 0.001) than patients without anaemia. Poor clinical outcome (21% vs. 11%, P < 0.001) and mortality (11% vs. 6%, P = 0.07) were more common amongst patients with anaemia. After adjustment, anaemia at admission increased the risk of poor outcome [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.5-3.7, model 1]. Model 2 revealed comparable results (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2-3.2), as did the sensitivity analysis excluding patients with cancer (aOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.3-3.8, model 1). CONCLUSION: The risk of poor clinical outcome is doubled in CVT patients presenting with anaemia at admission.

Embolic stroke of undetermined source: Beyond atrial fibrillation. / Infarto cerebral embólico de origen no determinado: más allá de la fibrilación auricular.

INTRODUCTION: Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) accounts for 25% of all cerebral infarcts; only 30% are associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). Various biochemical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic findings may suggest left atrial damage and increased risk of embolism in the absence of clinically documented AF or atrial flutter. In this review, we analyse the available evidence on atrial cardiopathy or atrial disease, its involvement in ESUS, and its identification through electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and serum markers and its possible therapeutic implications. DEVELOPMENT: A systematic search was conducted on MEDLINE (PubMed) using the following MeSH terms: MeSH [ESUS]+[atrial cardiopathy]+[atrial fibrillation]+[interatrial block]+[treatment]. We selected what we considered to be the most useful original prospective or retrospective studies and systematic reviews. We then read the full texts of the articles and checked the references cited in each article. We analyse epidemiological and demographic variables of patients with ESUS, as well as recent evidence related to presentation and prognosis and factors associated with recurrence and mortality. We review the contribution of atrial cardiopathy diagnosis prior to the detection of AF and the clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic variables and the biochemical markers associated with its development and its potential contribution to cerebral embolism. CONCLUSIONS: The systematic search of biochemical and electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic alterations can be useful to identify ESUS patients at higher risk of recurrence.

Moyamoya disease in Mexico: Our experience. / Enfermedad moyamoya en México. Experiencia institucional.

INTRODUCTION: Moyamoya disease (MD) is a progressive, occlusive disease of the arteries of the anterior cerebral circulation that may cause ischaemia or haemorrhage. Patient management aims to prevent new cerebrovascular events through surgical revascularisation and/or pharmacological treatment. METHODS: We studied a series of 17 patients with MD (n = 14) or moyamoya syndrome (n = 3), who were evaluated between January 1989 and December 2016; 11 patients were women and 6 were men. Thirteen patients had definitive MD (76%), one had unilateral MD (5.2%), and 3 had moyamoya syndrome (18%). The condition manifested as intraparenchymal haemorrhage (in 35.2% of patients), brain ischaemia (29.4%), subarachnoid haemorrhage (17.6%), seizures (11.7%), and headache with no associated haemorrhage (one patient). RESULTS: Ten patients (58.8%) underwent revascularisation and 7 (41.2%) received pharmacological treatment. All patients were evaluated with the modified Rankin Scale (mRs) at admission and at the last consultation; mRs scores were significantly lower in the group undergoing surgery (P < .04). During follow-up, none of the patients undergoing revascularisation experienced recurrences, whereas 2 patients receiving pharmacological treatment did experience a new vascular event (one ischaemic and one haemorrhagic) (P < .05). No significant differences were observed between the treatment outcomes of different revascularisation techniques. CONCLUSIONS: Although our population has different demographic characteristics from those of other non-Asian populations, ours is the largest published series of Hispanic individuals with MD. Our results support the use of revascularisation procedures to improve these patients' neurological status and to prevent new cerebrovascular events.

Differential serum cytokine profile in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients are susceptible to the development of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). The main theory concerning the physiopathology of PRES suggests that there is brain-blood barrier damage, which is associated with endothelial dysfunction, and characterized by vasogenic oedema. However, current evidence regarding its physiopathogenic mechanisms is quite scant. The aim of this study was to analyse the expression of different serum cytokines, as well as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), in patients with PRES/systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to compare them with levels in SLE patients without PRES and in healthy controls. We performed a transversal study in a tertiary care centre in México City. We included 32 subjects (healthy controls, n = 6; remission SLE, n = 6; active SLE, n = 6 and PRES/SLE patients, n = 14). PRES was defined as reversible neurological manifestations (seizures, visual abnormalities, acute confusional state), associated with compatible changes by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Serum samples were obtained during the first 36 h after the PRES episode and were analysed by cytometric bead array, Luminex multiplex assay or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 levels were significantly higher in PRES/SLE patients (P = 0·013 and 0·025, respectively) when compared to the other groups. Furthermore, IL-6 and IL-10 levels displayed a positive correlation (r = 0·686, P = 0·007). There were no differences among groups regarding other cytokines, sCD40L or VEGF levels. A differential serum cytokine profile was found in PRES/SLE patients, with increased IL-6 and IL-10 levels. Our findings, which are similar to those described in other neurological manifestations of SLE, support the fact that PRES should be considered among the SLE-associated neuropsychiatric syndromes.

Ictus isquémico secundario a arteriopatía focal cerebral unilateral / Ischaemic stroke secondary to unilateral focal cerebral arteriopathy

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Trastornos del sueño no respiratorios en relación con ictus / Non-breathing-related sleep disorders following stroke

Introducción: Actualmente se reconoce que los trastornos respiratorios, en especial la apnea del sueño, son frecuentes en pacientes con accidente vascular cerebral y que su presencia reduce el potencial de recuperación neurológica de estos pacientes. Sin embargo, es poco conocido el hecho de que otros trastornos del sueño que también se producen a consecuencia de un ictus como la somnolencia diurna, el insomnio y los trastornos del movimiento también son capaces de producir o incrementar la discapacidad asociada al ictus. Desarrollo: Estudios polisomnográficos han evidenciado múltiples alteraciones en la arquitectura del sueño de los pacientes en la fase aguda del ictus, las cuales tienden a mejorar con el transcurso del tiempo pero manteniendo un efecto deletéreo sobre la calidad de vida. Lo mismo ocurre con trastornos del sueño que se producen como consecuencia de un ictus (el insomnio, la narcolepsia, el síndrome de piernas inquietas, los movimientos periódicos de las piernas y el trastorno de conducta del sueño MOR) todos los cuales son potencialmente tratables. Con el objetivo de incrementar la conciencia acerca de estas condiciones y sus efectos sobre los pacientes con ictus, se revisa brevemente la epidemiología y fisiopatología en la subpoblación de pacientes neurológicos con ictus. Conclusiones: A diferencia de los trastornos respiratorios, otros trastornos del sueño han sido escasamente estudiados en pacientes con ictus, a pesar de que prácticamente todos los trastornos del sueño pueden presentarse a consecuencia de esta enfermedad

Introduction: It has been shown that sleep-related breathing disorders, especially sleep apnea, are very common in patients who have had a stroke, and that they also reduce the potential for neurological recovery. Nevertheless, other sleep disorders caused by stroke (excessive daytime sleepiness, insomnia, sleep related movement disorders) can also cause or increase stroke-related disability, and this fact is less commonly known. Development: Studies with polysomnography have shown many abnormalities in sleep architecture during the acute phase of stroke; these abnormalities have a negative impact on the patient's quality of life although they tend to improve with time. This also happens with other sleep disorders occurring as the result of a stroke (insomnia, narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder and REM sleep behavior disorder), which are nevertheless potentially treatable. In this article, we briefly review the physiopathology and epidemiology of the disorders listed above in order to raise awareness about the importance of these disorders and the effects they elicit in stroke patients. Conclusions: Sleep disorders that are not breathing-related have scarcely been studied in stroke patients despite the fact that almost all such disorders may present as a result of a cerebrovascular event

Differences in lipid profiles in two Hispanic ischemic stroke populations.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The study aims to compare lipid profiles among ischemic stroke patients in a predominantly Caribbean-Hispanic population in Miami and a Mestizo Hispanic population in Mexico City. METHODS: We analyzed ischemic stroke Hispanic patients with complete baseline fasting lipid profile enrolled contemporaneously in the prospective registries of two tertiary care teaching hospitals in Mexico City and Miami. Demographic characteristics, risk factors, medications, ischemic stroke subtype, and first fasting lipid profile were compared. Vascular risk factor definitions were standardized. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to compare lipid fractions. RESULTS: A total of 324 patients from Mexico and 236 from Miami were analyzed. Mexicans were significantly younger (58 · 1 vs. 67 · 4 years), had a lower frequency of hypertension (53 · 4% vs. 79 · 7%), and lower body mass index (27 vs. 28 · 5). There was a trend toward greater prevalence of diabetes in Mexicans (31 · 5 vs. 24 · 6%, P = 0 · 07). Statin use at the time of ischemic stroke was more common in Miami Hispanics (18 · 6 vs. 9 · 4%). Mexicans had lower total cholesterol levels (169 · 9 ± 46 · 1 vs. 179 · 9 ± 48 · 4 mg/dl), lower low-density lipoprotein (92 · 3 ± 37 · 1 vs. 108 · 2 ± 40 · 8 mg/dl), and higher triglyceride levels (166 · 9 ± 123 · 9 vs. 149 · 2 ± 115 · 2 mg/dl). These differences remained significant after adjusting for age, gender, hypertension, diabetes, body mass index, smoking, ischemic stroke subtype, and statin use. CONCLUSION: We found significant differences in lipid fractions in Hispanic ischemic stroke patients, with lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein, and higher triglyceride levels in Mexicans. These findings highlight the heterogeneity of dyslipidemia among the Hispanic race-ethnic group and may lead to different secondary prevention strategies.