Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Is an Independent Predictor of 30-Day Mortality of Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients: a Validation Cohort Study

In a previous study in patients with intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), we found an association between high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with poor short-term mortality. In the current study, this preliminary finding was validated using an independent patient cohort. A total of 181 ICH patients (from January 2016 to December 2017) were included. Diagnosis was confirmed using computed tomography (CT) in all cases. Patient survival (up to 30 days) was compared between subjects with high NLR (above the 7.35 cutoff; n?=?74) versus low NLR (≤?7.35; n?=?107) using Kaplan-Meier analysis. A multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors that influenced the 30-day mortality. Correlation between NLR with other relevant factors (e.g., C-reactive protein (CRP) and fibrinogen) was examined using Spearman correlation analysis. The 30-day mortality was 19.3% (35/181) in the entire sample, 37.8% (28/74) in the high-NLR group, and 6.5% (7/107) in the low-NLR group (P?<?0.001). In comparison to the low-NLR group, the high-NLR group had higher rate of intraventricular hemorrhage (29.7 vs. 16.8%), ICH volume (median 23.9 vs. 6.0 cm³) and ICH score (median 1.5 vs. 0), and lower GCS score (9.4?±?4.5 vs. 12.9?±?3.2). An analysis that divided the samples into three equal parts based on NLR also showed increasing 30-day mortality with incremental NLR (1.6, 15.0, and 41.7% from lowest to highest NLR tertile, P for trend <?0.001). Kaplan-Meier curve showed higher 30-day mortality in subjects with high NLR than those with low NLR (P?<?0.001 vs. low-NLR group, log-rank test). High NLR (>?7.35) is associated with poor short-term survival in acute ICH patients.     

Hemicraniectomy for Supratentorial Primary Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Retrospective,Propensity Score Matched Study

Background and Purpose: Spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) contributes disproportionately to stroke mortality, and randomized trials of surgical treatments for ICH have not shown benefit. Decompressive hemicraniectomy (DHC) improves functional outcome in patients with malignant middle cerebral artery ischemic stroke, but data in ICH patients is limited. We hypothesized that DHC would reduce in-hospital mortality and poor functional status (defined as modified Rankin scale ≥5) among survivors at 3 months, without increased complications. Methods: We performed a retrospective, case-control, propensity score matched study to determine whether hemicraniectomy affected outcome in patients with spontaneous supratentorial ICH. The propensity score consisted of variables associated with outcome or predictors of hemicraniectomy. Forty-three surgical patients were matched to 43 medically managed patients on ICH location, sex, and nearest neighbor matching. Three-month functional outcomes, in-hospital mortality, and in-hospital complications were measured. Results: In the medical management group, 72.1% of patients had poor outcome at 3 months compared with 37.2% who underwent hemicraniectomy (odds ratio 4.8, confidence interval 1.6-14). In-hospital mortality was 51.2% for medically managed patients and 16.3% for hemicraniectomy patients (odds ratio 8.5, confidence interval 2.0-36.8). There were no statistically significant differences in the occurrence of in-hospital complications. Conclusions: In our retrospective study of selected patients with spontaneous supratentorial ICH, DHC resulted in lower rate of in-hospital mortality and better 3-month functional status compared with medically managed patients. A randomized trial is necessary to evaluate DHC as a treatment for certain patients with spontaneous supratentorial ICH.     

The role of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide in evaluating the prognosis of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage

A prognostic biomarker that can provide a good prediction of prognosis in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) would be beneficial in guiding the initial management decisions in the setting of ICH. N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a biomarker of prognosis in patients with cardiovascular disease and ischemic stroke. However, the prognostic role of NT-proBNP in patients with spontaneous ICH is still a controversial issue. This study aimed to determine the prognostic value of NT-proBNP in patients with spontaneous ICH. A total of 132 patients from 571 ICH cases in inpatient settings were enrolled in this study. Blood samples from each subject were obtained and analyzed for NT-proBNP on admission and on days 4 and 7. The first end point was functional outcome at discharge, which was dichotomized into favorable or unfavorable; the secondary end point was mortality within 6 months after ICH. Compared with the baseline levels on admission after ICH, the NT-proBNP levels increased markedly on day 4 (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the NT-proBNP level on day 4, the ICH score, and the APACHE II score were independent prognostic factors of functional outcome and 6-month mortality in ICH patients. A cutoff NT-proBNP level of 999.85 pg/ml predicted an unfavorable functional outcome (with 66.1% sensitivity and 98.7% specificity) and 6-month mortality (with 93.8% sensitivity and 92.0% specificity) in ICH patients. Thus, the NT-proBNP level on day 4 was found to be a powerful prognostic predictor of functional outcome and 6-month mortality in ICH patients, which would be beneficial to guiding the initial management decisions in the setting of ICH.     

Perihematomal Edema Expansion Rates and Patient Outcomes in Deep and Lobar Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background

Perihematomal edema (PHE) expansion rate may predict functional outcome following spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We hypothesized that the effect of PHE expansion rate on outcome is greater for deep versus lobar ICH.

Methods

Subjects (n = 115) were retrospectively identified from a prospective ICH cohort enrolled from 2000 to 2013. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 18 years, spontaneous supratentorial ICH, and known onset time. Exclusion criteria were primary intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), trauma, subsequent surgery, or warfarin-related ICH. ICH and PHE volumes were measured from CT scans and used to calculate expansion rates. Logistic regression assessed the association between PHE expansion rates and 90-day mortality or poor functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale > 2). Odds ratios are per 0.04 mL/h.

Results

PHE expansion rate from baseline to 24 h (PHE24) was associated with mortality for deep (p = 0.03, OR 1.13[1.02–1.26]) and lobar ICH (p = 0.02, OR 1.03[1.00–1.06]) in unadjusted regression and in models adjusted for age (deep p = 0.02, OR 1.15[1.02–1.28]; lobar p = 0.03, OR 1.03[1.00–1.06]), Glasgow Coma Scale (deep p = 0.03, OR 1.13[1.01–1.27]; lobar p = 0.02, OR 1.03[1.01–1.06]), or time to baseline CT (deep p = 0.046, OR 1.12[1.00–1.25]; lobar p = 0.047, OR 1.03[1.00–1.06]). PHE expansion rate from baseline to 72 h (PHE72) was associated with mRS > 2 for deep ICH in models that were unadjusted (p = 0.02, OR 4.04[1.25–13.04]) or adjusted for ICH volume (p = 0.02, OR 4.3[1.25–14.98]), age (p = 0.03, OR 5.4[1.21–24.11]), GCS (p = 0.02, OR 4.19[1.2–14.55]), or time to first CT (p = 0.03, OR 4.02[1.19–13.56]).

Conclusions

PHE72 was associated with poor functional outcomes after deep ICH, whereas PHE24 was associated with mortality for deep and lobar ICH.

     

Nosocomial Infections and Outcomes after Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Population-Based Study

Background

Infections after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) may be associated with worse outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the association between nosocomial infections (>48 h) and outcomes of ICH at a population level.

Methods

We identified patients with ICH using ICD-9-CM codes in the 2002–2011 Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Demographics, comorbidities, surgical procedures, and hospital characteristics were compared between patients with and without concomitant nosocomial infections. Primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and home discharge. Secondary outcome was permanent cerebrospinal shunt placement. Logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the association between infections and outcomes.

Results

Among 509,516 ICH patients, infections occurred in 117,636 (23.1 %). Rates of infections gradually increased from 18.7 % in 2002–2003 to 24.1 % in 2010–2011. Pneumonia was the most common nosocomial infection (15.4 %) followed by urinary tract infection (UTI) (7.9 %). Patients with infections were older (p < 0.001), predominantly female (56.9 % vs. 47.9 %, p < 0.001), and more often black (15.0 % vs. 13.4 %, p < 0.001). Nosocomial infection was associated with longer hospital stay (11 vs. 5 days, p < 0.001) and a more than twofold higher cost of care (p < 0.001). In the adjusted regression analysis, patients with infection had higher odds of mortality [odds ratio (OR) 2.11, 95 % CI 2.08–2.14] and cerebrospinal shunt placement (OR 2.19, 95 % CI 2.06–2.33) and lower odds of home discharge (OR 0.49, 95 % CI 0.47–0.51). Similar results were observed in subgroup analyses of individual infections.

Conclusions

In a nationally representative cohort of ICH patients, nosocomial infection was associated with worse outcomes and greater resource utilization.

     

The Role of FEIBA in Reversing Novel Oral Anticoagulants in Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background

Activated prothrombin complex concentrates factor eight inhibitor bypassing activity (FEIBA) has been recommended for reversing novel oral anticoagulants (NOAC) in the context of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), though few clinical studies report its use.

Methods

A prospective study of patients with spontaneous ICH was conducted from May 2013 to May 2015. Hospital complications including hemorrhage (gastrointestinal bleeding, anemia requiring transfusion, and surgical site bleeding) and thrombosis (pulmonary embolus, deep vein thrombosis, ischemic stroke, and myocardial infarction) were recorded. All ICH patients underwent baseline head CT and a follow-up stability scan in 6 h. NOAC taken within 48 h of presentation was reversed with FEIBA (50 u/kg) per protocol. Three-month outcomes were assessed using the modified rankin score (mRS).

Results

Of 127 ICH patients enrolled, 6 (5 %) had NOAC-related ICH including: oral factor XA inhibitor N = 5 (4 %; N = 4 rivaroxaban, N = 1 apixaban] and direct thrombin inhibitor N = 1 (0.8 %; dabigatran). The indication for NOAC was atrial fibrillation in all patients and the median CHADS2–VASC score was 4 (range 2–5). The median admission NIHSS was 2 (range 0–14) and the median ICH volume was 8 mL (range 1–20). Five patients (3 rivaroxaban, 1 apixaban, 1 dabigatran) presented within 48 h and received FEIBA within a median of 13 h (range 10–29 h) from their last NOAC dose and 8 h (range 4.5–20) from the time last known well. None of the patients had ICH expansion, hemorrhagic, or thrombotic complications. Three-month median mRS was 1 (range 0–6).

Conclusion

In this small case series, reversal of NOAC with FEIBA was not associated with ICH expansion or any thrombotic or hemorrhagic complications.

     

Increased infections with β-blocker use in ischemic stroke,a β<Subscript>2</Subscript>-receptor mediated process?

Strokes promote immunosuppression, partially from increased sympathetic activity. Altering sympathetic drive with β-blockers has variably been shown to improve stroke outcomes. This study adds to this literature using propensity score matching to limit confounding and by examining the effects of selective and non-selective β-blockers. Prospective data from acute ischemic stroke admissions at a single center from July 2010–June 2015 were analyzed. Outcomes included infection (urinary tract infection [UTI], pneumonia, or bacteremia), discharge modified Rankin Score (mRS), and in-hospital death. Any selective and non-selective β-blocker use during the first 3 days of admission were investigated with propensity score matching. A sensitivity analysis was also performed. This study included 1431 admissions. Any β-blocker use was associated with increased infections (16.4 vs. 10.7%, p = 0.030). Non-selective β-blocker use was associated with increased infections (18.9 vs. 9.7%, p = 0.005) and UTIs (13.0 vs. 5.5%, p = 0.009). Selective β-blocker use was not associated with infection. There were no associations between β-blocker use and in-hospital death or discharge mRS. In the sensitivity analysis, the association between non-selective β-blocker use and urinary tract infections persisted (12.5 vs. 4.2%, p = 0.044). No associations with death or mRS were found. Early β-blocker use after ischemic stroke may increase the risk of infection but did not change disability or mortality risk. The mechanism may be mediated by β₂-adrenergic receptor antagonism given the different effects seen with selective versus non-selective β-blocker use.     

CT Angiography Spot Sign,Hematoma Expansion,and Outcome in Primary Pontine Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background and Purpose

The computed tomography angiography (CTA) spot sign is a validated predictor of hematoma expansion and poor outcome in supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), but patients with brainstem ICH have typically been excluded from the analyses. We investigated the frequency of spot sign and its relationship with hematoma expansion and outcome in patients with primary pontine hemorrhage (PPH).

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of PPH cases obtained from a prospectively collected cohort of consecutive ICH patients who underwent CTA. CTA first-pass readings for spot sign presence were analyzed by two trained readers. Baseline and follow-up hematoma volumes on non-contrast CT scans were assessed by semi-automated computer-assisted volumetric analysis. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), positive and negative likelihood ratio, and accuracy of spot sign for prediction of in-hospital mortality were calculated.

Results

49 subjects met the inclusion criteria of whom 11 (22.4 %) showed a spot sign. In-hospital mortality was higher in spot sign-positive versus spot sign-negative subjects (90.9 vs 47.4 %, p = 0.020). Spot sign showed excellent specificity (95 %) and PPV (91 %) in predicting in-hospital mortality. Absolute hematoma growth, defined as parenchymal and intraventricular hematoma expansion of any amount, was significantly higher in spot sign-positive versus spot sign-negative subjects (13.72 ± 20.93 vs 3.76 ± 8.55 mL, p = 0.045).

Conclusions

As with supratentorial ICH, the CTA spot sign is a common finding and is associated with higher risk of hematoma expansion and mortality in PPH. This marker may assist clinicians in prognostic stratification.

     

Men Experience Higher Risk of Pneumonia and Death After Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background

Infectious complications worsen outcome after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We investigated the impact of sex on post-ICH infections and mortality.

Methods

Consecutive ICH patients (admitted to a single hospital between 1994 and 2015) were retrospectively assessed via chart review to ascertain the following in-hospital infections: urinary tract infection (UTI), pneumonia, and sepsis. Adjusted logistic regression was performed to identify associations between sex, infection, and mortality at 90 days.

Results

Two thousand and four patients were investigated, 1071 (53.7%) males. Men were more likely to develop pneumonia (21.9 vs 15.5% p < 0.001) and sepsis (3.4 vs 1.6%, p = 0.009), whereas women had higher risk of UTI (19.9 vs 11.7% p < 0.001). Multivariate analyses confirmed association between male sex and pneumonia (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.37, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08–1.74, p = 0.011). Male sex (OR 1.40; CI 1.07–1.85; p = 0.015) and infection (OR 1.56; CI 1.11–1.85; p = 0.011) were independently associated with higher 90-day mortality.

Conclusions

Types and rates of infection following ICH differ by sex. Male sex independently increases pneumonia risk, which subsequently increases 90-day mortality. Sex-specific preventive strategies to reduce the risk of these complications may be one strategy to improve ICH outcomes.

     

Incidence,Predictors, and Outcomes of Ventriculostomy-Associated Infections in Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background

The impact of ventriculostomy-associated infections (VAI) on intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) outcomes has not been clearly established, although prior studies have attempted to address the incidence and predictors of VAI. We aimed to explore VAI characteristics and its effect on ICH outcomes at a population level.

Methods

ICH patients requiring ventriculostomy with and without VAI were identified from 2002 to 2011 Nationwide Inpatient Sample using ICD-9 codes. A retrospective cohort study was performed. Demographics, comorbidities, hospital characteristics, inpatient outcomes, and resource utilization measures were compared between the two groups. Pearson’s Chi-square and Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney tests were used for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Logistic regression was used to analyze the predictors of VAI.

Results

We included 34,238 patients in the analysis, of whom 1934 (5.6 %) had VAI. The rate of ventriculostomy utilization in ICH increased from 5.7 % in 2002–2003 to 7.0 % in 2010–2011 (trend p < 0.001) and the rate of VAI also showed a gradual upward trend from 6.1 to 7.0 % across the same interval (trend p < 0.001). The VAI group had significantly higher inpatient mortality (41.2 vs. 36.5 %, p < 0.001) and it remained higher after controlling for baseline demographics, hospital characteristics, comorbidity, and systemic infections (adjusted OR 1.38, 95 % CI 1.22–1.46, p < 0.001). The VAI group had longer length of hospital stay and higher inflation adjusted cost of care. Predictors of VAI included higher age, males, higher Charlson’s comorbidity scores, longer length of stay, and presence of systemic infections mainly pneumonia and sepsis.

Conclusion

VAI resulted in higher inpatient mortality, more unfavorable discharge disposition, and higher resource utilization measures in ICH patients. Steps to mitigate VAI may help improve ICH outcomes and decrease hospital costs.

     

Stereotactic computed tomographic-guided aspiration and thrombolysis of intracerebral hematoma : protocol and preliminary experience

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: We review preliminary experience with patients harboring intracerebral hematoma (ICH) treated by stereotactic computed tomographic (CT) guided thrombolysis and aspiration and assess procedure feasibility and safety. METHODS: Twelve patients with supratentorial ICH >/=25 mL without suspected underlying structural etiology or coagulopathy and an initial Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of >/=5 were treated. A catheter was directed stereotactically or manually into the ICH through a burr hole under CT guidance. Hematoma aspiration was followed by instillation of urokinase (5 000 to 10 000 IU). This was repeated every 6 to 8 hours at bedside, with interval CT imaging, until the ICH volume diminished to <25 mL, less than half of its initial volume, or after a maximum of 10 aspirations/instillations. RESULTS: Mean age was 69 years (range 55 to 82 years). Median initial GCS was 12 (range 5 to 14). There were 7 ganglionic and 5 lobar ICH, and baseline hematoma size ranged 29 to 70 mL (mean 46 mL). Final ICH volume ranged from 14 to 51 mL (mean 21 mL), with ICH volume reduction by an average of 57% (range 38% to 70%). One patient (8. 3%) suffered hematoma expansion during the procedure. At 6 months after the procedure, 3 patients (25%) had achieved a good recovery (Glasgow Outcome Scale [GOS] score of 5), 5 patients (42%) were dependent (GOS 3), and 1 (8.3%) remained vegetative (GOS 2). Three patients (25%) died in hospital (1 from cardiac arrhythmia and 2 from respiratory failure). CONCLUSIONS: CT-guided thrombolysis and aspiration appears safe and effective in the reduction of ICH volume. Further studies are needed to assess optimal thrombolytic dosage and must include controlled comparisons of mortality, disability outcome, time until convalescence, and cost of care in treated and untreated patients.     

Comparison of CT black hole sign and other CT features in predicting hematoma expansion in patients with ICH

Background and purpose

The hematoma expansion (HE) is an important risk factor for early neurological deterioration and poor prognosis. In this study, we aimed to compare the black hole sign with other computed tomography (CT) features to predict the HE and the outcome in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods

Patients were enrolled within 12 h after stroke attack in the emergency department of Henan Provincial People’s Hospital between January 2012 and June 2016. The clinical characters and CT features including the initial CT and the follow-up CT within 48 h were recorded. The outcome was assessed by using the modified Rankin Scale on discharge. Logistic regression analyses were used to investigate whether the factors were the independent predictor of HE and the outcome in patients with ICH. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive of CT features in predicting HE were calculated.

Results

A total of 185 ICH patients were enrolled, including 70 (37.8%) patients in HE group and 115 (62.2%) patients in non-HE group. There were significant difference in the initial hematoma volume, irregular shape, and CT black hole sign (P?=?0.013, 0.006 and P?<?0.001) between the two groups. While irregular shape and CT black hole sign were independent predictors for HE, the sensitivity and specificity were 71.45 and 54.78, 51.4 and 81.7%, respectively. Multivariable analysis identified CT black hole sign (P?=?0.108) and initial intraventricular hemorrhage expansion (P?=?0.214) were not the independent predictors of poor outcome.

Conclusion

CT black hole sign presented the best predictive accuracy of predicting HE in patients with ICH compared to other CT features. However, it was not an independent predictor of poor outcome.

     

Defining the Optimal Midline Shift Threshold to Predict Poor Outcome in Patients with Supratentorial Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background

Midline shift (MLS) has been associated with unfavorable outcome in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). However, the optimal criteria to define the MLS measurements that indicate future outcome in ICH patients are absent, and the quantitative threshold of MLS that differentiates favorable and poor clinical outcome should be further explored.

Methods

We enrolled patients with ICH who underwent admission computed tomography (CT) within 6 h after onset of symptoms. We assessed MLS at several locations, including the pineal gland, septum pellucidum, and cerebral falx. MLS(max) was defined as the maximum midline shift among these locations. Functional outcomes were assessed with the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 3 months. We performed multivariate logistic regression analysis to investigate the MLS locations for predicting poor outcome. ROC curve analysis was used to establish whether MLS values were predictive of 90-day poor outcome.

Results

In 199 patients with ICH, 78 (39.2%) patients had poor functional outcome at 3-month follow-up. Pineal gland shift, septum pellucidum shift, cerebral falx shift, and MLS(max) all showed a significant difference between poor outcome and favorable outcome (p < 0.001). After adjustment for age, baseline Glasgow Coma Scale score, ICH location, time to initial CT, baseline ICH volume, and intraventricular hemorrhage, the MLS(max) was independently associated with poor outcome (p = 0.032). MLS(max) > 4 mm (our proposed optimal threshold) was more likely to have poorer outcomes than those without (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

MLS(max) can be a good independent predictor of clinical outcome, and MLS(max) > 4 mm is an optimal threshold associated with poor outcome in patients with ICH.

     

Acutely Trapped Ventricle: Clinical Significance and Benefit from Surgical Decompression

Background

Focal ventricular obstruction—trapped ventricle—results in cerebrospinal fluid accumulation, mass effect and possible clinical deterioration. There are no systematic studies on the benefit of surgical decompression in adults.

Methods

We reviewed patients admitted with acutely trapped ventricle on brain imaging to assess their prognosis and the effect of surgical intervention on 30-day mortality.

Results

Of the 392 patients with trapped ventricle, the most common causes were brain tumor (45 %), intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) (20 %), and subdural hematoma (SDH) (14 %). Lateral ventricle trapping accounted for 97 % of cases. Two hundred and twenty-one patients (56 %) received a surgical intervention for trapped ventricle or its causes; 126 (83 %) were treated with craniotomy, 26 (17 %) with craniectomy, 30 (14 %) with external ventricular drain (EVD) alone, 23 (10 %) with ventriculoperitoneal shunt alone, and 16 (7 %) with endoscopic fenestration of the septum pellucidum. Surgical intervention was associated with mortality reduction from 95 % (n = 54) to 48 % (n = 11) in the ICH group, from 47 % (n = 27) to 12 % (n = 15) in the tumor group and from 90 % (n = 18) to 20 % (n = 7) in the SDH group (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). Univariate logistic analysis showed that surgical intervention and tumor etiology were associated with decreased mortality while age, ICH etiology, intraventricular hemorrhage, midline shift, and anticoagulation were associated with increased mortality. On multivariate logistic regression, surgical intervention remained associated with decreased mortality (p < 0.0001; OR 0.20, 95 % CI 0.09–0.42). On subgroup analysis of the ICH cohort, surgical intervention was also associated with decreased mortality (p = 0.028).

Conclusions

Neurosurgical intervention for decompression in patients with trapped ventricle can have a measurable beneficial effect on early mortality.

     

Minority Patients are Less Likely to Undergo Withdrawal of Care After Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background

Prior studies of patients in the intensive care unit have suggested racial/ethnic variation in end-of-life decision making. We sought to evaluate whether race/ethnicity modifies the implementation of comfort measures only status (CMOs) in patients with spontaneous, non-traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods

We analyzed data from the Ethnic/Racial Variations of Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ERICH) study, a prospective cohort study specifically designed to enroll equal numbers of white, black, and Hispanic subjects. ICH patients aged ≥?18 years were enrolled in ERICH at 42 hospitals in the USA from 2010 to 2015. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were implemented to evaluate the association between race/ethnicity and CMOs after adjustment for potential confounders.

Results

A total of 2705 ICH cases (912 black, 893 Hispanic, 900 white) were included in this study (mean age 62 [SD 14], female sex 1119 [41%]). CMOs patients comprised 276 (10%) of the entire cohort; of these, 64 (7%) were black, 79 (9%) Hispanic, and 133 (15%) white (univariate p?<?0.001). In multivariate analysis, compared to whites, blacks were half as likely to be made CMOs (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.34–0.75; p?=?0.001), and no statistically significant difference was observed for Hispanics. All three racial/ethnic groups had similar mortality rates at discharge (whites 12%, blacks 9%, and Hispanics 10%; p?=?0.108). Other factors independently associated with CMOs included age (p?<?0.001), premorbid modified Rankin Scale (p?<?0.001), dementia (p?=?0.008), admission Glasgow Coma Scale (p?=?0.009), hematoma volume (p?<?0.001), intraventricular hematoma volume (p?<?0.001), lobar (p?=?0.032) and brainstem (p?<?0.001) location and endotracheal intubation (p?<?0.001).

Conclusions

In ICH, black patients are less likely than white patients to have CMOs. However, in-hospital mortality is similar across all racial/ethnic groups. Further investigation is warranted to better understand the causes and implications of racial disparities in CMO decisions.

     

Swirl sign in traumatic acute epidural hematoma: prognostic value and surgical management

The swirl sign is identified as a small area of low attenuation within an intracranial hyperattenuating clot on non-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scans of the brain, which represents active bleeding. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of the swirl sign among patients with acute epidural hematoma (AEDH) and to identify its prognostic value and impact on surgical treatment. A retrospective review was performed of patients with a diagnosis of traumatic EDH by CT scan who were surgically treated at the Department of Neurosurgery of the First People’s Hospital of Jingmen between January 2010 and January 2014. Patients with combined or open craniocerebral injuries and those who did not undergo surgical treatment were excluded. Of the 147 patients evaluated, 21 (14%) exhibited the swirl sign on non-enhanced CT scans of the brain. Univariate analysis revealed a significant correlation between the occurrence of the swirl sign and preoperative Glasgow coma scale scores, preoperative mydriasis, time from injury to CT scan, and intraoperative hematoma volume. Compared with patients without this sign, those exhibiting the swirl sign had a higher mortality rate (24 vs. 6%, respectively; P = 0.028) and a worse outcome (Glasgow Outcome Scale score ≤ 3: 38 vs. 15%, respectively; P = 0.027) at 3 months. An adjusted analysis showed that the occurrence of the swirl sign was an independent predictor of poor outcome (death: odds ratio (OR) = 4.61; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.34–15.82; P < 0.05; 3-month Glasgow Outcome Scale score ≤ 3: OR = 3.47; 95% CI: 1.27–9.49; P < 0.05). In conclusion, the occurrence of the swirl sign on the head CT scan of patients with AEDH was found to be significantly associated with poor outcome. Therefore, early identification of this sign and aggressive management with early surgical evacuation is crucial for improving patient outcome.     

Prophylactic Anticonvulsants in Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background and Purpose

Prophylactic anticonvulsants are routinely prescribed in the acute setting for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients, but some studies have reported an association with worse outcomes. We sought to characterize the prevalence and predictors of prophylactic anticonvulsant administration after ICH as well as guideline adherence. We also sought to determine whether prophylactic anticonvulsants were independently associated with poor outcome.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of primary ICH in our two academic centers. We used a propensity matching approach to make treated and non-treated groups comparable. We conducted multiple logistic regression analysis to identify independent predictors of prophylactic anticonvulsant initiation and its association with poor outcome as measured by modified Rankin score.

Results

We identified 610 patients with primary ICH, of whom 98 were started on prophylactic anticonvulsants. Levetiracetam (97%) was most commonly prescribed. Age (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.95–0.99, p < .001), lobar location (OR 2.94, 95% CI 1.76–4.91, p < .001), higher initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.40–3.79, p = .001), craniotomy (OR 3.06, 95% CI 1.51–6.20, p = .002), and prior ICH (OR 2.36, 95% CI 1.10–5.07, p = .028) were independently associated with prophylactic anticonvulsant initiation. Prophylactic anticonvulsant use was not associated with worse functional outcome [modified Rankin score (mRS) 4–6] at hospital discharge or with increased case-fatality. There was no difference in prescribing patterns after 2010 guideline publication.

Discussion

Levetiracetam was routinely prescribed following ICH and was not associated with worse outcomes. Future investigations should examine the effect of prophylactic levetiracetam on cost and neuropsychological outcomes as well as the role of continuous EEG in identifying subclinical seizures.

     

Factors Associated with the Need for Intensive Care Unit Admission Following Supratentorial Intracerebral Hemorrhage: The Triage ICH Model

Background

Providing the correct level of care for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is crucial, but the level of care needed at initial presentation may not be clear. This study evaluated factors associated with admission to intensive care unit (ICU) level of care.

Methods

This is an observational study of all adult patients admitted to our institution with non-traumatic supratentorial ICH presenting within 72 h of symptom onset between 2009–2012 (derivation cohort) and 2005–2008 (validation cohort). Factors associated with neuroscience ICU admission were identified via logistic regression analysis, from which a triage model was derived, refined, and retrospectively validated.

Results

For the derivation cohort, 229 patients were included, of whom 70 patients (31 %) required ICU care. Predictors of neuroscience ICU admission were: younger age [odds ratio (OR) 0.94, 95 % CI 0.91–0.97; p = 0.0004], lower Full Outline of UnResponsiveness (FOUR) score (0.39, 0.28–0.54; p < 0.0001) or Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (0.55, 0.45–0.67; p < 0.0001), and larger ICH volume (1.04, 1.03–1.06; p < 0.0001). The model was further refined with clinician input and the addition of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). GCS was chosen for the model rather than the FOUR score as it is more widely used. The proposed triage ICH model utilizes three variables: ICH volume ≥30 cc, GCS score <13, and IVH. The triage ICH model predicted the need for ICU admission with a sensitivity of 94.3 % in the derivation cohort [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.88; p < 0.001] and 97.8 % (AUC = 0.88) in the validation cohort.

Conclusions

Presented are the derivation, refinement, and validation of the triage ICH model. This model requires prospective validation, but may be a useful tool to aid clinicians in determining the appropriate level of care at the time of initial presentation for a patient with a supratentorial ICH.

     

Prevalence and clinical characteristics of cortical superficial siderosis in patients with acute stroke

Cortical superficial siderosis (cSS) is a pathologic and radiologic diagnosis of hemosiderin deposition in subpial brain layers. However, cSS has not been fully studied in patients with acute stroke. Here, we investigated the prevalence of cSS in patients with acute stroke and analyzed the relationship between cSS and different clinical and neuroimaging characteristics. From September 2014 through June 2016, consecutive patients with acute stroke who were admitted to our department were retrospectively investigated. We analyzed the prevalence of cSS and the associations between cSS and risk factors, the topographic distribution of cerebral microbleeds (CMBs), and the severity of white matter lesions (WMLs). In total, 739 patients (589 patients with ischemic stroke/transient ischemic stroke [IS/TIA] and 150 with intracerebral hemorrhage [ICH]; mean age, 71.4 years) were enrolled. We identified cSS in six (1.0%) patients with IS/TIA and seven (4.7%) patients with ICH. The presence of cSS was associated with ICH (P < 0.0001), WMLs (P = 0.0105), and lobar and non-lobar CMBs (both P < 0.0001); no associations between cSS and age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors, IS subtype classification, or antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy were found. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, high numbers of lobar CMBs (≥ 2; odds ratio, 11.03; 95% confidence interval, 2.03–205.40; P = 0.0029) were independently associated with cSS. Furthermore, cSS was often located near lobar CMBs. Our results suggest that cSS is prevalent in ICH and is independently associated with lobar CMBs; however, no associations between cSS and other risk factors or comorbidities were observed.     

原发性脑出血超急性期血肿增长速度与临床预后的关系研究

目的 探讨超急性期血肿增长速度（ultraearly hematoma growth，UHG）与急性原发性脑出血 （intracerebral hemorrhage，ICH）血肿扩大及临床预后的关系。 方法 连续收集发病6 h内就诊的ICH患者。患者完成基线及（24±2）h颅脑计算机断层扫描（computed tomography，CT），记录临床信息及结局信息。UHG定义为基线血肿体积除以发病至头CT扫描时间。血 肿扩大定义为发病24 h血肿体积较基线血肿体积增加>33%或者>6 ml。90 d及1年预后不良定义为改 良Rankin量表评分>2分。多元Logistic回归分析UHG与血肿扩大及ICH临床预后的关系。 结果 研究共纳入148例发病6h内到院的ICH患者。所有ICH患者的UHG为5.3（2.3，12.9）ml/h。UHG在 完成头CT较早（P <0.001）、血肿扩大（P =0.019）、90 d预后不良（P <0.001）及1年预后不良（P <0.001） 的患者中数值较大。UHG>4.7 ml/h是1年不良预后的独立危险因素，比值比为17.5，95%可信区间 为1.44～21.23（P =0.025）。其预测1年不良预后的灵敏度为61.5%，特异度为65.1%，阳性预测率为 68.4%，阴性预测率为58%。