Manejo de la trombosis venosa cerebral en España: estudio descriptivo MOTIVATE / Management of cerebral venous thrombosis in Spain: MOTIVATE descriptive study

Introducción: La trombosis venosa cerebral (TVC) es una causa poco común de ictus que afecta principalmente a adultos jóvenes. Un diagnóstico precoz y preciso puede reducir la tasa y gravedad de las complicaciones. Objetivo: Analizar las características clínicas, manejo y tratamiento de la TVC en diferentes centros de nuestro país. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo multicéntrico de pacientes hospitalizados por TVC entre 2008 y 2017 en 11 centros sanitarios en nuestro país. Resultados: Se incluyeron 256 pacientes, edad media 49,8 ± 18,7 años y el 51% fueron mujeres. Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron: cefalea (73%), déficits focales (50%), crisis epilépticas (33%) y encefalopatía (21%). Las localizaciones más frecuentes fueron: seno longitudinal superior (12,5%), transverso (10,9%) y afectación de dos o más senos o venas (66,4%). La etiología conocida más frecuente fue la trombofilia (24%), siendo la mutación de la protrombina G20210A la más común (19%). El 46% fue tratado con antitrombóticos durante 3-6 meses, el 21% durante un año y un 22,6% de los pacientes requirieron anticoagulación indefinida. En un 5% de los sujetos fue preciso terapia endovascular y un 33% requirió neurocirugía. En relación al pronóstico, el 75% fueron independientes a los 3 meses con una puntuación en la escala de Rankin modificada (mRS) ≤ 2 y la presencia de papiledema (p = 0,03), déficit focal (p = 0,001) y encefalopatía (p < 0,001) se relacionaron significativamente con mal pronóstico (mRS > 3). La tasa de mortalidad intrahospitalaria fue del 4,3% y el 6,3% de los pacientes fallecieron a los 3 meses. Conclusión:La diversidad de factores de riesgo y la presentación variable suponen un desafío en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de la TVC. Para mejorar el pronóstico y reducir la mortalidad es fundamental la instauración de protocolos en el manejo de esta patología.(AU)

Introduction: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon cause of stroke that mainly affects young adults. Early, accurate diagnosis can reduce the rate and severity of complications. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyse the clinical characteristics, management, and treatment of CVT in different centres in Spain. Methods: We conducted a multicentre, retrospective, descriptive study of patients hospitalised due to CVT between 2008 and 2017 at 11 Spanish centres. Results: We included 256 patients, with a mean age (SD) of 49.8 (18.7) years; 51% of patients were women. The most frequent symptoms were headache (73%), focal deficits (50%), epileptic seizures (33%), and encephalopathy (21%). The most frequent localisations were the superior sagittal sinus (12.5%), the transverse sinus (10.9%), and 2 or more sinuses or veins (66.4%). Thrombophilia was the most frequent known aetiology (24%), and was most commonly associated with the prothrombin G20210A mutation (19%). Forty-six percent of patients were treated with antithrombotics for 3-6 months, 21% for one year, and 22.6% required indefinite anticoagulation. Endovascular therapy was performed in 5% of cases, and 33% required neurosurgery. Regarding outcomes, 75% of patients were independent at 3 months (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score ≤ 2), with papilloedema (P = .03), focal deficits (P = .001), and encephalopathy (P < .001) showing a statistically significant association with poor prognosis (mRS > 3). The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.3%, with a 3-month mortality rate of 6.3%. Conclusion: The diverse risk factors and variable presentation of CVT represent a challenge in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. To improve prognosis and reduce mortality, it is essential to establish management protocols for this entity.(AU)

Management of cerebral venous thrombosis in Spain: MOTIVATE descriptive study.

INTRODUCTION: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon cause of stroke that mainly affects young adults. Early, accurate diagnosis can reduce the rate and severity of complications. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyse the clinical characteristics, management, and treatment of CVT in different centres in Spain. METHODS: We conducted a multicentre, retrospective, descriptive study of patients hospitalised due to CVT between 2008 and 2017 at 10 Spanish centres. RESULTS: We included 256 patients, with a mean age (SD) of 49.8 (18.7) years; 51% of patients were women. The most frequent symptoms were headache (73%), focal deficits (50%), epileptic seizures (33%), and encephalopathy (21%). The most frequent localisations were the superior sagittal sinus (12.5%), the transverse sinus (10.9%), and 2 or more sinuses or veins (66.4%). Thrombophilia was the most frequent known aetiology (24%), and was most commonly associated with the prothrombin G20210A mutation (19%). Forty-six percent of patients were treated with antithrombotics for 3 to 6 months, 21% for one year, and 22.6% required indefinite anticoagulation. Endovascular therapy was performed in 5% of cases, and 33% required neurosurgery. Regarding outcomes, 75% of patients were independent at 3 months (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score ≤ 2), with papilloedema (P =  .03), focal deficits (P = .001), and encephalopathy (P < .001) showing a statistically significant association with poor prognosis (mRS > 3). The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.3%, with a 3-month mortality rate of 6.3%. CONCLUSION: The diverse risk factors and variable presentation of CVT represent a challenge in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. To improve prognosis and reduce mortality, it is essential to establish management protocols for this entity.

Selection of patients for percutaneous closure in nonlacunar cryptogenic stroke associated with patent foramen ovale. Data from the NORDICTUS cooperative registry.

INTRODUCTION: There is an extending use of percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) as therapy for PFO-associated cryptogenic strokes. The aim of our study was to investigate the clinical practice of percutaneous closure of PFO and to analyse the variables for decision-making on the selection of patients for this procedure. METHOD: A prospective observational multicentric survey was conducted using all the cases of cryptogenic stroke/transient ischaemic attack associated with PFO recorded in the NORDICTUS hospital registry during the period 2018-2021. Clinical data, radiological patterns, echocardiogram data and factors related to PFO-associated stroke (thromboembolic disease and paradoxical embolism criteria) were recorded. The indication for closure was analysed according to age (≤/> 60 years) and the characteristics of the PFO. RESULTS: In the group ≤ 60 years (n = 488), 143 patients (29.3%) underwent PFO closure. The most influential variables for this therapy were detection of a high-risk PFO (OR 4.11; IC 2.6-6.5, P < .001), criteria for paradoxical embolism (OR 2.61; IC 1.28-5.28; P = .008) and previous use of antithrombotics (OR 2.67; IC 1.38-5.18; P = .009). In the > 60 years group (n = 124), 24 patients had PFO closure (19%). The variables related to this option were history of pulmonary thromboembolism, predisposition to thromboembolic disease, paradoxical embolism criteria, and high-risk PFO. CONCLUSIONS: The detection of a high-risk PFO (large shunt, shunt with associated aneurysm) is the main criterion for a percutaneous closure-based therapy. Other conditions to consider in the eligibility of patients are the history of thromboembolic disease, paradoxical embolism criteria or the previous use of antithrombotics.

Epidemiología y características del ictus isquémico en el adulto joven en Aragón / Epidemiology and characteristics of ischaemic stroke in young adults in Aragon

Introducción: Alrededor de 15 millones de personas sufren un ictus cada año, de los que un 10-15% ocurre en menores de 50 años (ictus en el adulto joven). La prevalencia de los distintos factores de riesgo vascular y las estrategias sanitarias para el manejo del ictus varían a nivel mundial, siendo interesante conocer la epidemiología y las características específicas de cada región. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la prevalencia de los diferentes factores de riesgo vascular, la etiología y las características de los ictus isquémicos en el adulto joven en la comunidad autónoma de Aragón. Métodos: Estudio multicéntrico, de corte transversal, realizado por los Servicios de Neurología de todos los hospitales del Servicio Aragonés de Salud (SALUD). Se identificó a todos los pacientes entre 18 y 50 años que ingresaron en cualquiera de estos hospitales con el diagnóstico de ictus isquémico o AIT entre enero del 2005 y diciembre del 2015. Se recogieron variables demográficas, factores de riesgo vascular y tipo de ictus isquémico entre otras. Resultados: En el periodo de estudio, 786 pacientes entre 18 y 50 años ingresaron con el diagnóstico de ictus isquémico o AIT en algún hospital del SALUD, con una tasa anual promedio de 12,3 por 100.000 habitantes. La mediana de su edad fue de 45 años (RIQ: 40-48 años). El factor de riesgo vascular más prevalente fue el tabaquismo, 404 (51,4%). La mayoría fue de causa indeterminada (36,2%), seguida por «otras causas» (26,5%). La mediana de puntuación en la escala NIHSS fue de 3,5 (RIQ: 2,07,0). En total, 211 (26,8%) de los ingresos fueron por AIT. De los pacientes que ingresaron con el diagnóstico de ictus isquémico, 59 (10,3%) se fibrinolizaron. Conclusiones: El ictus isquémico en el adulto joven no es infrecuente en Aragón y en un importante número de casos es de etiología indeterminada, por lo que es necesario implementar medidas que nos permitan mejorar su estudio, disminuir su incidencia y prevenir su recurrencia. (AU)

Introduction: Stroke affects around 15 million people per year, with 10%-15% occurring in individuals under 50 years old (stroke in young adults). The prevalence of different vascular risk factors and healthcare strategies for stroke management vary worldwide, making the epidemiology and specific characteristics of stroke in each region an important area of research. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of different vascular risk factors and the aetiology and characteristics of ischaemic stroke in young adults in the autonomous community of Aragon, Spain. Methods: A cross-sectional, multi-centre study was conducted by the neurology departments of all hospitals in the Aragonese Health Service. We identified all patients aged between 18 and 50 years who were admitted to any of these hospitals with a diagnosis of ischaemic stroke or TIA between January 2005 and December 2015. Data were collected on demographic variables, vascular risk factors, and type of stroke, among other variables. Results: During the study period, 786 patients between 18 and 50 years old were admitted with a diagnosis of ischaemic stroke or TIA to any hospital of Aragon, at a mean annual rate of 12.3 per 100 000 population. The median age was 45 years (IQR: 40-48 years). The most prevalent vascular risk factor was tobacco use, in 404 patients (51.4%). The majority of strokes were of undetermined cause (36.2%), followed by other causes (26.5%). The median NIHSS score was 3.5 (IQR: 2.0-7.0). In total, 211 patients (26.8%) presented TIA. Fifty-nine per cent of the patients admitted with a diagnosis of ischaemic stroke (10.3%) were treated with fibrinolysis. Conclusions: Ischaemic stroke in young adults is not uncommon in Aragon, and is of undetermined aetiology in a considerable number of cases; it is therefore necessary to implement measures to improve study of the condition, to reduce its incidence, and to prevent its recurrence. (AU)

[Prognosis of patients assisted in the emergency unit by the 'TIA protocol' in a third-level hospital at 90 days]. / Pronóstico de pacientes atendidos en urgencias mediante 'protocolo AIT' en un hospital de tercer nivel a los 90 días.

INTRODUCTION: Care models developed for the rapid management of patients with transient ischaemic attack (TIA) are safe, effective and reduce recurrence rates. The aim is to determine the prevalence of cardiovascular events at 90 days. PATIENTS AND METHODS: An observational, analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted. Adult male and female patients seen in the emergency department using the 'TIA protocol' between January 2016 and December 2019 were analysed. Data were collected on clinical variables, complementary tests, treatment and cardiovascular events (stroke/TIA, acute coronary syndrome or death due to cardiovascular causes) at 90 days. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Aragon. RESULTS: The TIA protocol was performed on 163 out of 591 patients diagnosed with TIA in the emergency department. Brain CT and neurosonology scans were performed in 100% and a 24-hour Holter-electrocardiogram was carried out in 52.1%; atrial fibrillation (AF) was detected in 3.6% of them. An MRI brain scan was performed in 78.4% and acute ischaemic injury was seen in diffusion sequences (DWI+) in 13.5%. The prevalence of cardiovascular events at 90 days was 4.9% (8): stroke, 3.1% (five TIAs); acute coronary syndrome, 0.6% (one); and death from cardiovascular causes, 1.2% (two). Major adverse cardiovascular events were significantly associated with a history of ischaemic heart disease (p = 0.014). Cardiovascular death was associated with a history of AF (p = 0.008), anticoagulants at discharge (p = 0.007) and no antiplatelet therapy at discharge (p = 0.012), and there was a tendency towards an association with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (p = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Rapid TIA protocols allow early care and avoid hospital admissions, without increasing the incidence of cardiovascular events or recurrence of stroke or TIA at 90 days.

TITLE: Pronóstico de pacientes atendidos en urgencias mediante 'protocolo AIT' en un hospital de tercer nivel a los 90 días.Introducción. Los modelos asistenciales desarrollados para el manejo rápido de pacientes con accidente isquémico transitorio (AIT) son seguros, eficaces y disminuyen las tasas de recurrencia. El objetivo es conocer la prevalencia de eventos cardiovasculares a 90 días. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio observacional, analítico y transversal. Se analiza a pacientes adultos de ambos sexos atendidos en urgencias mediante el 'protocolo AIT' entre enero de 2016 y diciembre de 2019. Se recogen variables clínicas, pruebas complementarias, tratamiento y eventos cardiovasculares (ictus/AIT, síndrome coronario agudo o muerte por causa cardiovascular) a los 90 días. El estudio fue aprobado por el Comité Ético de Investigación de Aragón. Resultados. Se realizó el protocolo AIT a 163 de 591 pacientes diagnosticados de AIT en urgencias. Se realizó una tomografía computarizada cerebral y una neurosonología al 100%, y un Holter-electrocardiograma de 24 horas al 52,1%, y se detectó fibrilación auricular (FA) en el 3,6%. Se hizo una resonancia magnética cerebral al 78,4%, y se demostró lesión isquémica aguda en secuencias de difusión (DWI+) en un 13,5%. La prevalencia de eventos cardiovasculares a los 90 días fue del 4,9% (8): ictus, el 3,1% (cinco AIT); síndrome coronario agudo, el 0,6% (uno), y muerte por causa cardiovascular, el 1,2% (dos). Los eventos adversos cardiovasculares mayores se asociaron de forma significativa al antecedente de cardiopatía isquémica (p = 0,014). La muerte por causa cardiovascular se asoció al antecedente de FA (p = 0,008), anticoagulación al alta (p = 0,007) y no antiagregación al alta (p = 0,012), y hubo una tendencia a la asociación con antecedente de diabetes mellitus de tipo 2 (p = 0,05). Conclusiones. Los protocolos AIT de actuación rápida permiten una atención precoz y evitan ingresos hospitalarios, sin implicar un incremento en la incidencia de eventos cardiovasculares o recurrencia de ictus o AIT a los 90 días.

Epidemiology and characteristics of ischaemic stroke in young adults in Aragon.

INTRODUCTION: Stroke affects around 15 million people per year, with 10%-15% occurring in individuals under 50 years old (stroke in young adults). The prevalence of different vascular risk factors and healthcare strategies for stroke management vary worldwide, making the epidemiology and specific characteristics of stroke in each region an important area of research. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of different vascular risk factors and the aetiology and characteristics of ischaemic stroke in young adults in the autonomous community of Aragon, Spain. METHODS: A cross-sectional, multi-centre study was conducted by the neurology departments of all hospitals in the Aragonese Health Service. We identified all patients aged between 18 and 50 years who were admitted to any of these hospitals with a diagnosis of ischaemic stroke or TIA between January 2005 and December 2015. Data were collected on demographic variables, vascular risk factors, and type of stroke, among other variables. RESULTS: During the study period, 786 patients between 18 and 50 years old were admitted with a diagnosis of ischaemic stroke or TIA to any hospital of Aragon, at a mean annual rate of 12.3 per 100 000 population. The median age was 45 years (IQR: 40-48 years). The most prevalent vascular risk factor was tobacco use, in 404 patients (51.4%). The majority of strokes were of undetermined cause (36.2%), followed by other causes (26.5%). The median NIHSS score was 3.5 (IQR: 2.0-7.0). In total, 211 patients (26.8%) presented TIA. Fifty-nine per cent of the patients admitted with a diagnosis of ischaemic stroke (10.3%) were treated with fibrinolysis. CONCLUSIONS: Ischaemic stroke in young adults is not uncommon in Aragon, and is of undetermined aetiology in a considerable number of cases; it is therefore necessary to implement measures to improve study of the condition, to reduce its incidence, and to prevent its recurrence.

Management of cerebral venous thrombosis in Spain: MOTIVATE descriptive study. / Manejo de la trombosis venosa cerebral en España: estudio descriptivo MOTIVATE.

INTRODUCTION: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon cause of stroke that mainly affects young adults. Early, accurate diagnosis can reduce the rate and severity of complications. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyse the clinical characteristics, management, and treatment of CVT in different centres in Spain. METHODS: We conducted a multicentre, retrospective, descriptive study of patients hospitalised due to CVT between 2008 and 2017 at 11 Spanish centres. RESULTS: We included 256 patients, with a mean age (SD) of 49.8 (18.7) years; 51% of patients were women. The most frequent symptoms were headache (73%), focal deficits (50%), epileptic seizures (33%), and encephalopathy (21%). The most frequent localisations were the superior sagittal sinus (12.5%), the transverse sinus (10.9%), and 2 or more sinuses or veins (66.4%). Thrombophilia was the most frequent known aetiology (24%), and was most commonly associated with the prothrombin G20210A mutation (19%). Forty-six percent of patients were treated with antithrombotics for 3-6 months, 21% for one year, and 22.6% required indefinite anticoagulation. Endovascular therapy was performed in 5% of cases, and 33% required neurosurgery. Regarding outcomes, 75% of patients were independent at 3 months (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score ≤ 2), with papilloedema (P=.03), focal deficits (P=.001), and encephalopathy (P <.001) showing a statistically significant association with poor prognosis (mRS> 3). The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.3%, with a 3-month mortality rate of 6.3%. CONCLUSION: The diverse risk factors and variable presentation of CVT represent a challenge in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. To improve prognosis and reduce mortality, it is essential to establish management protocols for this entity.

Pronóstico funcional a 3 meses de pacientes hospitalizados por ictus isquémico agudo en Aragón: análisis regional de la repercusión de la COVID-19 / Three-month functional prognosis of patients hospitalised due to acute ischaemic stroke in Aragon: Rregional analysis of the impact of COVID-19

Introducción: La pandemia por COVID-19 ha tenido un impacto en el manejo del ictus isquémico; se ha descrito una disminución de los ingresos hospitalarios e incluso una interrupción en la cadena de atención y un aumento de la mortalidad intrahospitalaria. Sin embargo, falta evidencia sobre su impacto en el pronóstico funcional. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar el efecto de la pandemia por COVID-19 en el pronóstico funcional a 3 meses de los pacientes con ictus isquémico agudo hospitalizados en Aragón.Material y métodosRevisamos los datos de todos los pacientes ingresados por ictus isquémico en todos los hospitales de nuestro sistema sanitario entre el 30 de diciembre del 2019 y el 3 de mayo del 2020. Comparamos su mRS y la mortalidad a 3 meses de los hospitalizados antes y después de haberse establecido el estado de emergencia secundario a la pandemia por COVID-19.ResultadosEn total, 318 pacientes con ictus isquémico agudo cumplieron nuestros criterios de inclusión. No hubo diferencias en las características globales y específicas de cada periodo, excepto por una mayor proporción de pacientes mayores de 80 años de edad durante el periodo pre-CoV (42,2% vs. 29,0%, p = 0,028). En el análisis comparativo, no encontramos una diferencia significativa en la mortalidad (12,3 vs. 7,9, p = 0,465) o la proporción de pacientes con mRS ≤ 2 (57,7% vs. 57,1%, p = 0,425) a los 3 meses.ConclusiónHasta donde sabemos, este es el primer estudio que analiza el impacto de la pandemia por COVID-19 en el pronóstico funcional a 3 meses de pacientes con ictus isquémico. En nuestra comunidad autónoma, no ha habido un incremento en la mortalidad o discapacidad a 3 meses de pacientes hospitalizados por ictus isquémico durante el periodo de COVID-19. (AU)

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on ischaemic stroke management, with a reported decrease in hospital admissions, and even disruptions in healthcare and increased in-hospital mortality. However, there is a lack of evidence on the impact of the pandemic on functional prognosis. The aim of this study is to analyse the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the 3-month functional outcomes of patients hospitalised due to acute ischaemic stroke in Aragon (Spain).Materil and methodsWe reviewed the data of all patients admitted due to ischaemic stroke to any hospital in our regional healthcare system between 30 December 2019 and 3 May 2020. We compared modified Rankin Scale scores and mortality at 3 months in patients hospitalised before and after the declaration of a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic.ResultsIn total, 318 patients with acute ischaemic stroke met our inclusion criteria. No differences were observed between periods in global or specific characteristics, with the exception of a higher proportion of patients older than 80 years during the first period (42.2% vs. 29.0%, P=.028). In the comparative analysis, we found no significant differences in mortality (12.3 vs. 7.9, P=.465) or in the proportion of patients with modified Rankin Scale scores ≤ 2 (57.7% vs. 57.1%, P=.425) at 3 months.ConclusionTo our knowledge, this is the first study to analyse the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the 3-month functional outcomes of patients with ischaemic stroke. In our region, there has been no increase in rates of mortality or disability at 3 months in patients admitted due to ischaemic stroke during the pandemic. (AU)

Three-month functional prognosis of patients hospitalised due to acute ischaemic stroke in Aragon: regional analysis of the impact of COVID-19.

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on ischaemic stroke management, with a reported decrease in hospital admissions, and even disruptions in healthcare and increased in-hospital mortality. However, there is a lack of evidence on the impact of the pandemic on functional prognosis. The aim of this study is to analyse the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the 3-month functional outcomes of patients hospitalised due to acute ischaemic stroke in Aragon (Spain). METHODS: We reviewed the data of all patients admitted due to ischaemic stroke to any hospital in our regional healthcare system between 30 December 2019 and 3 May 2020. We compared modified Rankin Scale scores and mortality at 3 months in patients hospitalised before and after the declaration of a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS: In total, 318 patients with acute ischaemic stroke met our inclusion criteria. No differences were observed between periods in global or specific characteristics, with the exception of a higher proportion of patients older than 80 years during the first period (42.2% vs 29.0%, P = .028). In the comparative analysis, we found no significant differences in mortality (12.3 vs 7.9, P = .465) or in the proportion of patients with modified Rankin Scale scores ≤ 2 (57.7% vs 57.1%, P = .425) at 3 months. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first study to analyse the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the 3-month functional outcomes of patients with ischaemic stroke. In our region, there has been no increase in rates of mortality or disability at 3 months in patients admitted due to ischaemic stroke during the pandemic.

[Three-month functional prognosis of patients hospitalised due to acute ischaemic stroke in Aragon: Rregional analysis of the impact of COVID-19]. / Pronóstico funcional a 3 meses de pacientes hospitalizados por ictus isquémico agudo en Aragón: análisis regional de la repercusión de la COVID-19.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on ischaemic stroke management, with a reported decrease in hospital admissions, and even disruptions in healthcare and increased in-hospital mortality. However, there is a lack of evidence on the impact of the pandemic on functional prognosis. The aim of this study is to analyse the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the 3-month functional outcomes of patients hospitalised due to acute ischaemic stroke in Aragon (Spain). Materil and methods: We reviewed the data of all patients admitted due to ischaemic stroke to any hospital in our regional healthcare system between 30 December 2019 and 3 May 2020. We compared modified Rankin Scale scores and mortality at 3 months in patients hospitalised before and after the declaration of a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: In total, 318 patients with acute ischaemic stroke met our inclusion criteria. No differences were observed between periods in global or specific characteristics, with the exception of a higher proportion of patients older than 80 years during the first period (42.2% vs. 29.0%, P=.028). In the comparative analysis, we found no significant differences in mortality (12.3 vs. 7.9, P=.465) or in the proportion of patients with modified Rankin Scale scores ≤ 2 (57.7% vs. 57.1%, P=.425) at 3 months. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to analyse the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the 3-month functional outcomes of patients with ischaemic stroke. In our region, there has been no increase in rates of mortality or disability at 3 months in patients admitted due to ischaemic stroke during the pandemic.

Abiotrophia defectiva, una causa infrecuente de ictus cardioembólico / Abiotrophia defectiva, an infrequent cause of cardioembolic stroke

Abiotrophia defectiva supone una causa poco frecuente de endocarditis con una elevada tasa de embolización en comparación con otras endocarditis por estreptococo. Las complicaciones neurológicas pueden presentarse en el 20-40% de los casos, destacando aneurismas intracraneales y hemorragias subaracnoideas. Su aislamiento en el sistema nervioso central (SNC) es extremadamente raro y en la mayoría de los casos se asocia a procedimientos neuroquirúrgicos previos. Presentamos el caso de una paciente de 51 años que sufrió un ictus isquémico como complicación de una endocarditis por A. defectiva y se revisan los casos de infecciones del SNC causadas por dicho microorganismo. La relevancia del caso radica en su singularidad, debido a la ausencia de enfermedad valvular previa en la paciente y sin historia reciente de procedimientos invasivos o intervenciones quirúrgicas

Abiotrophia defectiva is a rare cause of endocarditis with a high embolization rate compared to other streptococcal endocarditis. Neurological complications may occur in 20-40% of cases, and include intracranial aneurysms and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Its isolation in the central nervous system (CNS) is extremely rare and is associated with previous neurosurgical procedures. We present the case of a 51-year-old patient who suffered an ischemic stroke as a complication of A. defectiva endocarditis, and the cases of CNS infections caused by this microorganism are reviewed. The relevance of the case lies in its singular character, due to the absence of previous valve disease in the patient without a recent history of invasive procedures or surgical interventions

Impact of COVID-19 outbreak in reperfusion therapies of acute ischaemic stroke in northwest Spain.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Spain has been one of the countries more heavily stricken by SARS-CoV-2, which has had huge implications for stroke care. The aim was to analyse the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic outbreak on reperfusion therapies for acute ischaemic stroke in the northwest of Spain. METHODS: This was a Spanish multicentre retrospective observational study based on data from tertiary hospitals of the NORDICTUS network. All patients receiving reperfusion therapy for ischaemic stroke between 30 December 2019 and 3 May 2020 were recorded, and their baseline, clinical and radiological characteristics, extra- and intra-hospital times of action, Code Stroke activation pathway, COVID-19 status, reperfusion rate, and short-term outcome before and after the setting of the emergency state were analysed. RESULTS: A total of 796 patients received reperfusion therapies for ischaemic stroke. There was a decrease in the number of patients treated per week (46.5 patients per week vs. 39.0 patients per week, P = 0.043) and a delay in out-of-hospital (95.0 vs. 110.0 min, P = 0.001) and door-to-needle times (51.0 vs. 55.0, P = 0.038). Patients receiving endovascular therapy obtained less successful reperfusion rates (92.9% vs. 86.6%, P = 0.016). COVID-19 patients had more in-hospital mortality. CONCLUSION: A decrease in the number of patients benefiting from reperfusion therapies was found, with a delay in out-of-hospital and door-to-needle times and worse reperfusion rates in northwest Spain. COVID-19 patients had more in-hospital mortality.

[Abiotrophia defectiva, an infrequent cause of cardioembolic stroke].

Abiotrophia defectiva is a rare cause of endocarditis with a high embolization rate compared to other streptococcal endocarditis. Neurological complications may occur in 20-40% of cases, and include intracranial aneurysms and sub-arachnoid hemorrhage. Its isolation in the central nervous system (CNS) is extremely rare and is associated with previous neurosurgical procedures. We present the case of a 51-year-old patient who suffered an ischemic stroke as a complication of A. defectiva endocarditis, and the cases of CNS infections caused by this microorganism are reviewed. The relevance of the case lies in its singular character, due to the absence of previous valve disease in the patient without a recent history of invasive procedures or surgical interventions.

Epidemiology and characteristics of ischaemic stroke in young adults in Aragon. / Epidemiología y características del ictus isquémico en el adulto joven en Aragón.

INTRODUCTION: Stroke affects around 15 million people per year, with 10%-15% occurring in individuals under 50 years old (stroke in young adults). The prevalence of different vascular risk factors and healthcare strategies for stroke management vary worldwide, making the epidemiology and specific characteristics of stroke in each region an important area of research. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of different vascular risk factors and the aetiology and characteristics of ischaemic stroke in young adults in the autonomous community of Aragon, Spain. METHODS: A cross-sectional, multi-centre study was conducted by the neurology departments of all hospitals in the Aragonese Health Service. We identified all patients aged between 18 and 50 years who were admitted to any of these hospitals with a diagnosis of ischaemic stroke or TIA between January 2005 and December 2015. Data were collected on demographic variables, vascular risk factors, and type of stroke, among other variables. RESULTS: During the study period, 786 patients between 18 and 50 years old were admitted with a diagnosis of ischaemic stroke or TIA to any hospital of Aragon, at a mean annual rate of 12.3 per 100 000 population. The median age was 45 years (IQR: 40-48 years). The most prevalent vascular risk factor was tobacco use, in 404 patients (51.4%). The majority of strokes were of undetermined cause (36.2%), followed by other causes (26.5%). The median NIHSS score was 3.5 (IQR: 2.0-7.0). In total, 211 patients (26.8%) presented TIA. Fifty-nine per cent of the patients admitted with a diagnosis of ischaemic stroke (10.3%) were treated with fibrinolysis. CONCLUSIONS: Ischaemic stroke in young adults is not uncommon in Aragon, and is of undetermined aetiology in a considerable number of cases; it is therefore necessary to implement measures to improve study of the condition, to reduce its incidence, and to prevent its recurrence.

Síndrome de la media luna secundario a ataque isquémico transitorio / Temporal crescent syndrome secondary to transient ischaemic attack

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[Isolated hand palsy due to an ischaemic stroke]. / Paralisis aislada de la mano debido a un infarto isquemico.

TITLE: Paralisis aislada de la mano debido a un infarto isquemico.

Parálisis aislada de la mano debido a un infarto isquémico / Isolated hand palsy due to an ischaemic stroke

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[Knowledge of cerebrovascular disease in the population of Zaragoza]. / Conocimiento de la enfermedad vascular cerebral en la poblacion de Zaragoza.

INTRODUCTION: Acute cerebrovascular disease is a major cause of disability and mortality, with important socio-economic and health impacts. Early stroke care can reduce mortality and improve prognosis. Right now, we can apply treatments in the acute phase, with capacity to reverse the symptoms, but few patients who benefit not reach the hospital soon. One reason for this delay is the lack of recognition of symptoms and poor perception of gravity. AIM: To find out the knowledge of the public about the stroke. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The sample analyzed was the population of Sector III of Zaragoza, with random selection. The tool used was a telephone survey structured. We analyzed 583 surveys. RESULTS: 63.5% of respondents did not know any symptoms of stroke. 48% do not know any vascular risk factor. Only 9% recognized at least two symptoms and two risk factors. Regarding the attitude, 56% act properly against 44% who do not. Multivariate analysis showed that the factors more related to knowledge are the cultural level and young age. Living in town, and female, they are associated with the best attitude. CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge about stroke is poor, with a low sense of urgency. The factors most associated with the best knowledge are young age and cultural level.

TITLE: Conocimiento de la enfermedad vascular cerebral en la poblacion de Zaragoza.Introduccion. El ictus es una de las principales causas de invalidez y mortalidad en nuestra sociedad, con importantes repercusiones socioeconomicas y sanitarias. La asistencia precoz puede mejorar el pronostico de los pacientes. Actualmente, existen tratamientos en fase aguda, que consiguen reperfundir el tejido isquemico en riesgo y revertir la sintomatologia, pero son pocos los pacientes que se benefician, por el retraso en su atencion, debido a la falta de reconocimiento de los sintomas y la escasa percepcion de gravedad. Objetivo. Analizar el conocimiento de la poblacion de nuestra area de salud sobre el ictus. Sujetos y metodos. La muestra analizada ha sido la poblacion del sector III de la provincia de Zaragoza, con seleccion aleatoria. La herramienta utilizada ha sido una encuesta telefonica estructurada (total de 583). Resultados. Un 63,5% de los encuestados desconoce los sintomas del ictus, y un 48%, los factores de riesgo vascular. Solo un 9% reconoce al menos dos sintomas y dos factores de riesgo. En cuanto a la actitud, un 56% actuaria correctamente frente a un 44% que no. El analisis multivariante mostro que los factores mas relacionados con el conocimiento fueron el nivel cultural y la edad joven. Vivir en un pueblo y sexo femenino se relacionaron con la mejor actitud. Conclusiones. El conocimiento del ictus es escaso, con una baja percepcion de urgencia. Los factores que implican un mejor conocimiento son la edad joven y el nivel cultural alto.