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Background: Early diagnosis of large vessel occlusion (LVO) in acute stroke often requires CT angiography (CTA). Automated CT perfusion (CTP) software, which identifies blood flow abnormalities, enhances LVO diagnosis and patient selection for endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). This study evaluates the sensitivity of automated CTP images in detecting perfusion abnormalities in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and LVO or medium vessel occlusion (MeVO), compared to CTA. Methods: We screened acute ischemic stroke patients presenting within 24 h who underwent CT, CTA, and CTP as per institutional protocol. RAPID AI software processed CTP images, while neuroradiologists reviewed CTA for intracranial arterial occlusions. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of automated CTP maps in detecting occlusions were assessed. Results: Of 790 screened patients, 31 were excluded due to lack of RAPID CTP data or poor‐quality scans, leaving 759 for analysis. The median age was 71 years (IQR: 61–81), with 47% female. Among them, 678 had AIS, and 81 had AIS ruled out. CTA identified arterial occlusion in 562 patients (74%), with corresponding CTP abnormalities in 537 patients (Tmax > 6 sec). In the 197 without occlusion, CTP was negative in 161. Automated CTP maps had a sensitivity of 95.55% (CI 95: 93.50–97.10%), specificity of 81.73% (CI 95: 75.61–86.86%), negative predictive value of 98.22% (CI 95: 97.39–98.79%), positive predictive value of 63.54% (CI 95: 56.46–70.09%), and overall accuracy of 85.18% (CI 95: 82.45–87.64%). Conclusions: Automated CTP maps demonstrated high sensitivity and negative predictive value for LVOs and MeVOs, suggesting their usefulness as a rapid diagnostic tool, especially in settings without expert neuroradiologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Functional outcomes in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) have not been well characterized in the Middle East and North Africa Region. We report the 30 and 90-day clinical outcomes in the native and expatriate of Qatar with ICH. Methods: We evaluated the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), NIHSS, and imaging in the Qatar Stroke Registry (2013–22). The outcome measures were a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 90  days and mortality at 30 and 90  days. Unfavorable outcome was defined as mRS of 4–6. We performed non-parametric ROC analyses to measure the concordance index (C-index) to assess the goodness-of-fit of ICH score for predicting 30  day and 90-day mortality and functional outcome. Results: 1,660 patients (median age of 49 (41.5–58) years; male 83.1%, expatriates 77.5%) with ICH, including supratentorial deep in 65.2%, cortical in 16.2%, infratentorial 16% and primary intraventricular in 2.5% were studied. The median baseline ICH volume was 7.5 (3.2–15.8) ml. An unfavorable outcome was seen in 673 (40.5%) patients at 90  days. The unfavorable 90-day outcome (mRS 4–6) was 49.2% in the native population vs. 44.4% in Africans, 39.0% in South Asian, 35.3% in Far Eastern, and 7.7% in Caucasians, p  <  0.001. Mortality at 30  days and 90  days was 10.4 and 15.1%. Increasing age [OR (95% CI), 1.02 (1.00–1.03)], lower GCS [0.77 (0.73–0.80)], prior use of antiplatelet medications [1.82 (1.19–2.08)], higher ICH volume [1.03 (1.02–1.04)], and presence of any intraventricular hemorrhage [1.57(1.19–2.08)], were associated with unfavorable outcome. Conclusion: In this relatively younger ICH cohort more than 75% were expatriates. The ICH volume, 90-day unfavorable outcome and mortality was lower in the expatriates compared to the local Arab population, likely related to the younger age and smaller size of the hemorrhages. Prognostic scoring systems may have to be modified in this population to avoid early withdrawal of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Tensor‐valued diffusion encoding can disentangle orientation dispersion and subvoxel anisotropy, potentially offering insight into microstructural changes after cerebral ischemia. The purpose was to evaluate tensor‐valued diffusion MRI in human acute ischemic stroke, assess potential confounders from diffusion time dependencies, and compare to Monte Carlo diffusion simulations of axon beading. Methods: Linear (LTE) and spherical (STE) b‐tensor encoding with inherently different effective diffusion times were acquired in 21 acute ischemic stroke patients between 3 and 57 h post‐onset at 3 T in 2.5 min. In an additional 10 patients, STE with 2 LTE yielding different effective diffusion times were acquired for comparison. Diffusional variance decomposition (DIVIDE) was used to estimate microscopic anisotropy (μFA), as well as anisotropic, isotropic, and total diffusional variance (MKA, MKI, MKT). DIVIDE parameters, and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)‐derived mean diffusivity and fractional anisotropy (FA) were compared in lesion versus contralateral white matter. Monte Carlo diffusion simulations of various cylindrical geometries for all b‐tensor protocols were used to interpret parameter measurements. Results: MD was ˜40% lower in lesions for all LTE/STE protocols. The DIVIDE parameters varied with effective diffusion time: higher μFA and MKA in lesion versus contralateral white matter for STE with longer effective diffusion time LTE, whereas the shorter effective diffusion time LTE protocol yielded lower μFA and MKA in lesions. Both protocols, regardless of diffusion time, were consistent with simulations of greater beading amplitude and intracellular volume fraction. Conclusion: DIVIDE parameters depend on diffusion time in acute stroke but consistently indicate neurite beading and larger intracellular volume fraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early perihematomal edema (PHE) growth is associated with worse functional outcomes at 90 days. Remote Ischemic conditioning (RIC) may reduce perihematomal inflammation if applied early to patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We hypothesize that early RIC, delivered for seven days in patients with spontaneous ICH, may reduce PHE growth. Methods: ICH patients presenting within 6 h of symptom onset and hematoma volume < 60 milliliters (mL) were randomized to an RIC + standard care or standard care (SC) group. The primary outcome measure was calculated edema extension distance (EED), with the cm assessed on day seven. Results: Sixty patients were randomized with a mean  ±  SD age of 57.5  ±  10.8 years, and twenty-two (36.7%) were female. The relative baseline median PHE were similar (RIC group 0.75 (0.5–0.9) mL vs. SC group 0.91 (0.5–1.2) mL, p  =  0.30). The median EEDs at baseline were similar (RIC group 0.58 (0.3–0.8) cm vs. SC group 0.51 (0.3–0.8) cm, p  =  0.76). There was no difference in the median day 7 EED (RIC group 1.1 (0.6–1.2) cm vs. SC group 1 (0.9–1.2) cm, p  =  0.75). Conclusions: Early RIC therapy delivered daily for seven days was feasible. However, no decrease in EED was noted with the intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In patients with ischemic stroke, motor and sensory impairments are common and are associated with functional disability. Conventional physiotherapy (CP) is the primary modality of rehabilitation for post-stroke sensorimotor dysfunction. Ayurveda is a commonly practiced alternative system of medicine that offers unique rehabilitative measures for post-stroke recovery. We hypothesize that Ayurvedic rehabilitative treatment (ART) is superior to similar duration CP in improving the sensorimotor recovery of patients with ischemic stroke at 90 days after enrollment. AyuRvedic TrEatment in the Rehabilitation of Ischemic STrOke Patients in India: A Randomized controllEd trial (RESTORE) is an investigator-initiated, multicenter, prospective, randomized, controlled, parallel-arm, blinded outcome assessment trial being conducted under the Indian Stroke Clinical Trial (INSTRuCT) Network across the four comprehensive stroke centers in India. Consecutive hemodynamically stable adult patients with their first acute ischemic stroke between 1 and 3 months from stroke onset are being randomized (1:1) into two treatment groups to receive either 1 month of ART or 1 month of CP. The primary outcome measure is the Fugl Meyer Assessment-upper extremity for physical performance at 90 days. The secondary outcomes are the modified Rankin Scale, Barthel Index, Berg Balance, and SF-36 at 90 days. The safety outcomes include a composite of irreversible morbidity and mortality. A sample size of 140 (70 in each group) patients with ischemic stroke will allow us to detect a minimal clinical important difference of 9.4 (standard deviation) with superiority margin of 5, an attrition rate of 10%, alpha of 5%, and power of 80%. This randomized trial will systematically assess the efficacy and safety of traditional ART compared to CP. The trial has been registered in the Clinical Trial Registry India (CTRI/2018/04/013379). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Precise risk of hemorrhagic transformation (HT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) remains unknown, leading to delays in anticoagulation initiation for secondary stroke prevention. We sought to assess the rate of HT associated with direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) initiation within and beyond 48 h post-AIS. Methods: A pooled analysis of DOAC initiation within 14 days of AIS or transient ischemic attack (TIA) was conducted with six studies (four prospective open label treatment, blinded outcome studies and two randomized trials; NCT02295826 and NCT02283294). The primary endpoint was incident radiographic HT on follow-up imaging (days 7–30). Secondary endpoints included symptomatic HT, new parenchymal hemorrhage, recurrent ischemic events, extracranial hemorrhage, study period mortality, and follow-up modified Rankin Scale score. The results were reported as odds ratio (OR) or hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: We evaluated 509 patients; median infarct volume was 1.5 (0.1–7.8) ml, and median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was 2 (0–3). Incident radiographic HT was seen on follow-up scan in 34 (6.8%) patients. DOAC initiation within 48 h from index event was not associated with incident HT (adjusted OR 0.67, [0.30–1.50] P = 0.32). No patients developed symptomatic HT. Conversely, 31 (6.1%) patients developed recurrent ischemic events, 64% of which occurred within 14 days. Initiating a DOAC within 48 h of onset was associated with similar recurrent ischemic event rates compared with those in which treatment was delayed (HR: 0.42, [0.17–1.008] P = 0.052). In contrast to HT, recurrent ischemic events were associated with poor functional outcomes (OR = 6.8, [2.84–16.24], p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this pooled analysis, initiation of DOAC within 48 h post-stroke was not associated with increased incident risk of HT, and none developed symptomatic HT. The analysis was underpowered to determine the effect of early DOAC use upon recurrent ischemic events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) is delivered by a blood pressure cuff over the limb, raising pressure 50 mmHg above the systolic blood pressure, to a maximum of 200 mmHg. The cuff is inflated for five minutes and then deflated for five minutes in a sequential ischemia-reperfusion cycle 4–5 times per session. Elevated pressure in the limb may be associated with discomfort and consequently reduced compliance. Continuous assessment of relative blood concentration and oxygenation with a tissue reflectance spectroscopy (a type of optical sensor device) placed over the forearm during the RIC sessions of the arm will allow us to observe the effect of inflation and deflation of the pressure cuff. We hypothesize, in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and small vessel disease, RIC delivered together with a tissue reflectance sensor will be feasible. Methods: The study is a prospective, single-center, randomized control trial testing the feasibility of the device. Patients with AIS within 7 days from symptoms onset; who also have small vessel disease will be randomized 2:1 to intervention or sham control arms. All patients randomized to the intervention arm will receive 5 cycles of ischemia/reperfusion in the non-paralyzed upper limb with a tissue reflectance sensor and patients in the sham control arm will receive pressure by keeping the cuff pressure at 30 mmHg for 5 minutes. A total of 51 patients will be randomized, 17 in the sham control arm and 34 in the intervention arm. The primary outcome measure will be the feasibility of RIC delivered for 7 days or at the time of discharge. The secondary device-related outcome measures are fidelity of RIC delivery and the completion rate of intervention. The secondary clinical outcome includes a modified Rankin scale, recurrent stroke and cognitive assessment at 90 days. Discussion: RIC delivery together with a tissue reflectance sensor will allow insight into the blood concentration and blood oxygenation changes in the skin. This will allow individualized delivery of the RIC and improve compliance. Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05408130, June 7, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Uncertainty prevails regarding the patterns of autonomic dysfunction in patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (IPD). This study was undertaken with the aim of assessing the complete spectrum of cardiovascular autonomic function tests (CAFTs) and blood pressure variability patterns in IPD patients while comparing the same with age-matched controls. Methods: Patients with IPD presenting to the Christian Medical College and Hospital from December 2016 to November 2018 along with age-matched controls were prospectively evaluated using CAFTs. The IPD patients also underwent ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring (ABPM), and the diurnal systolic BP differences were used to classify into dippers (10-20%), non-dippers (0–10%), reverse dippers (<0%), and extreme dippers (>20%). Results: Autonomic dysfunction (AD) was prevalent in 41 (68.3%) IPD patients even in early disease (median (inter-quartile range) symptom duration 2 (1–4) years, mean Hoehn and Yahr (H&Y) stage 2 (1.5–2.8). Both sympathetic and parasympathetic parameters were impaired among IPD patients when compared to healthy controls. (E: I ratio 1.17 ± 0.12 vs 1.26 ± 0.14 (P < 0.001), Valsalva ratio (VR) 1.33 ± 0.27 vs 1.55 ± 0.25 (P < 0.001), PRT100 9.6 ± 8.0 vs 3.1 ± 1.8 (P < 0.001), tilt-up SBPAvg change 8.8 (4.2–13.8) vs 1.8 (−2.9–6.1) (P < 0.001), tilt-up HRAvg change 4.8 (2.2–8.2) vs 1.9 (−0.7–5.1) (P < 0.001). BP variability was demonstrated in 47 (79.7%) of IPD patients, with reverse dipping pattern in 28 (47.5%) seen more frequently in this cohort. Conclusions: Timely detection of AD may be helpful not only in recognizing IPD in its pre-motor stages but also in optimizing management for this population of patients. BP variability and abnormal dipping patterns on ABPM can be a potential marker of dysautonomia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: The role of community health workers (CHWs) in stroke surveillance and in establishing the stroke care pathway has not been studied. The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility of using CHWs in the public health system to identify stroke patients for population-based stroke registration and to study the establishment of acute stroke care pathway in rural areas of Ludhiana, Punjab, Northwest India. Methods: Two rural blocks in Ludhiana district, comprising 164 villages and a population of 259,778, were selected. Phase-1 (feasibility study) was from August to November 2016 and phase-2 from December 2016 to November 2018. All first-ever stroke cases in adults (aged ≥18 years) were included. The accredited social health activists (ASHAs) were trained to identify stroke patients in the community, who were later evaluated by a neurologist. Stroke characteristics were recorded, and the outcome was assessed at 6 months using modified Rankin scale (0–2, good outcome). Findings: During phase-2, 359 first-ever stroke patients and 102 stroke mimics were identified. The age-standardized incidence rate was 218.5/100,000 and 197∙6/100,000 for each year. Half (52.4%) of the patients reached health-care facilities within 4.5 h, yet none of them received thrombolysis. Very few patients (1.9%) utilized free government 108 ambulance service to reach a health-care facility. Out of 359 stroke cases, the majority (306, 85.23%) were reported by ASHAs and 14.77% were reported by other sources. Brain imaging was available in 127 (35.4%) patients, and 100 (78.7%) had ischemic stroke. The most common risk factor was hypertension (320, 89%) and drug abuse (154, 42.9%). At 6 months, 168 (64%) patients had a good outcome. Conclusion: ASHAs were able to identify stroke patients in the villages. Despite high numbers of patients reaching health-care facilities within a window period, the hospitals were unable to provide acute stroke treatment like thrombolysis. The health-care system needs to be strengthened to improve stroke care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The optimal timing of anticoagulation after stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is unknown. Aim and Hypothesis: Our primary aim is to demonstrate the safety of edoxaban initiation within 5 days of AF related stroke. Our secondary aim is to determine predictors of hemorrhagic transformation (HT) after AF related stroke. We hypothesize that the rate of radiological HT will not be increased in patients starting edoxaban within 5 days of AF related stroke, relative to those in whom initiation is delayed. We hypothesize that the risk of HT in patients treated with edoxaban can be predicted using RNA expressed in leukocytes at time of stroke. Methods and Design: LASER (Lixiana Acute Stroke Evaluation Registry) is a randomized controlled trial with an associated registry (clinicaltrials.gov NCT03494530). One hundred and fifty patients with ischemic stroke and AF will undergo baseline Computed Tomography (CT) scan and will be randomized 2:1 within 5 days of symptom onset to early (≤5 days, n = 100) or delayed (6–14 days, n = 50) edoxaban initiation. Participants will undergo clinical assessment and repeat CT at 7 days and clinical assessment at 90 days. Study Outcomes: The primary outcome is the rate of incident radiological HT. Secondary outcomes include symptomatic HT, recurrent ischemic stroke, recurrent sub-clinical infarcts on follow up CT, systemic hemorrhagic complication rate, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale and modified Rankin Scale at day 7 and 90, mortality within 90 days, quality of life assessments at day 90, and predictors of HT, including RNA expression by 6 pre-selected candidate genes. Discussion: Event rates for both HT and recurrent ischemic events, in patients treated with early vs. delayed edoxaban initiation are unknown. The primary study endpoint of LASER is an objective performance criterion relevant to clinical decision making in patients with AF related stroke. This study will provide data required for a definitive safety/efficacy study sample size power calculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mobile Stroke Unit (MSU) expedites the delivery of intravenous thrombolysis in acute stroke patients. We further evaluated the functional outcome of patients shipped to a tertiary care centre or repatriated to local hospitals after triage by MSU in acute stroke syndrome in rural northern Alberta. Consecutive patients with suspected acute stroke syndrome were included. On the basis of neurology consultation and, Computed Tomography findings, patients, who were thrombolysed or needed advanced care were transported to the Comprehensive stroke center (CSC) (Triage to CSC group). Other patients were repatriated to local hospital care (Triage to LHC group). A total of 156 patients were assessed in MSU, 73 (46.8%) were female and the mean age was 66.6 ± 15 years. One hundred and eight (69.2%) patients, including 41 (26.3%) treated with thrombolysis were transported to the CSC (Triage to CSC group) and 48 (30.8%) were repatriated to local hospital care. The diagnosis made in MSU and final diagnosis were matching in 88% (95) and 91.7% (44, p = 0.39) in Triage to CSC and Triage to LHC groups respectively. Prehospital triage by MSU of acute stroke syndrome can reliably repatriate patients to the home hospital. The proposed model has the potential to triage patients according to their medical needs by enabling treatment in home hospitals whenever reasonable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Aging and increased burden of cardiovascular risk factors are associated with severity of white matter hyperintensity (WMH). We assessed the burden and risk factor profile of WMHs in South Asian patients with transient ischemic attack (TIA) and minor stroke. Methods: Patients with acute ischemic stroke with the National Institute of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) score ≤ 5 who underwent MRI were included. The severity of WMHs was assessed based on age-related white matter change (ARWMC) scale (0–30). A score of > 8 or more was considered moderate-severe involvement. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association with risk factors. Results: A total of 424 patients with a mean ± SD age of 57.4 ± 14.5 years [females, 108 (25.5%)] were analyzed. Fifty-four (12.7%) patients had moderate or severe WMHs (ARWMC score > 8). Age (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.06; p = 0.004), hypertension (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1–5.1; p = 0.03) and smoking tobacco (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.4–5.6; p = 0.003) were independently associated with ARWMC score > 8. The median (IQR) regional score in patients with ARWMC score > 8 was maximum in frontal areas 4 (4–6, p < 0.0001) and parietooccipital areas 4.5(4–6, p < 0.0001). The presence of microbleeds (OR 6.3, 95% CI 3.1–12.7; p < 0.0001) was independently associated with ARWMC score > 8. Conclusion: South Asian patients with TIA and minor stroke are relatively young, and few patients have moderate and severe WMHs. Hypertension and tobacco smoking increases the risk of WMH. Targeting modifiable risk factors may reduce the burden of WMHs and vascular dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lack of compliance to medication and uncontrolled risk factors are associated with increased risk of recurrent stroke and acute coronary syndrome in patients with recent stroke. Multimodal patient education may be a strategy to improve the compliance to medication and early adoption of nonpharmacological measures to reduce the vascular risk factor burden in patients with stroke. We thus aim to develop multilingual short messaging services (SMS), print, and audio-visual secondary stroke prevention patient education package. The efficacy of the package will be tested in a randomized control trial to prevent major cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Methods: In the formative stage, intervention materials (SMS, video, and workbook) were developed. In the acceptability stage, the package was independently assessed and modified by the stakeholders involved in the stroke patient care and local language experts. The modified stroke prevention package was tested for implementation issues (implementation stage). Results: Sixty-nine SMS, six videos, and workbook with 11 chapters with 15 activities were developed in English language with a mean ± SD SMOG index of 9.1 ± 0.4. A total of 355 stakeholders including patients (24.8%), caregivers (24.8%), doctors (10.4%), nurses (14.1%), local language experts (2.8%), physiotherapists (13.2%), and research coordinators (9.8%) participated in 10 acceptability stage meetings. The mean Patient Education Material Assessment Tool understandability score in all languages for SMS, video scripts, and workbook was 95.2 ± 2.6%, 95.2 ± 4.4%, and 95.3 ± 3.6%, respectively. The patients [n = 20, mean age of 70.3 ± 10.6 years and median interquartile range (IQR) baseline NIHSS 1 (0–3)] or the research coordinators (n = 2) noted no implementation issues at the end of 1 month. Conclusion: An implementable complex multilingual patient education material could be developed in a stepwise manner. The efficacy of the package to prevent major adverse cardiovascular events is being tested in the SPRINT INDIA study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sex differences may determine presentation, utility of treatment, rehabilitation, and occurrences of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in acute stroke (AS). Objective:The purpose of the study was to evaluate the short-term prognosis and long-term outcomes in MACEs in Qatari nationals admitted with AS. Methods: All AS patients admitted between January 2014 and February 2019 were included. We evaluated the preadmission modified Rankin scale (mRS) score, etiology and severity of symptoms, complications, and functional recovery at discharge and 90 days. MACEs were recorded for 5 years. Results: There were 891 admissions for AS (mean age 64.0 ± 14.2 years) (male, n = 519 [mean age ± SD 62.9 ± 14.1 years]; female, n = 372 [mean age ± SD 65.6 ± 14.2 years] p = 0.005). There were no differences in the preadmission mRS and severity of symptoms as measured on National Institute of Stroke Scale. At discharge, the outcome was better (mRS 0–2) in men (57.8 vs. 46.0%), p = 0.0001. This difference persisted at the 90-day follow-up (mRS 0–2, male 69.4% vs. female 53.2%, p = 0.0001). At the 90-day follow-up, more women died (total deaths 70; women 38 [10.2%] versus men 32 [6.2%], p = 0.03). MACEs occurred in 25.6% (133/519) males and 30.9% (115/372) females over the 5-year follow-up period (odds ratio 0.77, 95% confidence interval 0.57–1.0, p = 0.83). Conclusions: Female patients have a poor short-term outcome following an AS when corrected for age and comorbidities. While our study cannot explain the reasons for the discrepancies, higher poststroke depression and social isolation in women may be important contributory factors, and requires further studies are required to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Recurrent stroke, cardiovascular morbidity, and mortality are important causes of poor outcome in patients with index stroke. Despite the availability of best medical management recurrent stroke occur in up to 15–20% of patients with stroke in India. Education for stroke prevention could be a strategy to prevent recurrent strokes. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that a structured semi-interactive stroke prevention package can reduce the risk of recurrent strokes, acute coronary artery syndrome, and death in patients with sub-acute stroke at the end of one year. Design: Secondary Prevention by Structured Semi-Interactive Stroke Prevention Package in INDIA (SPRINT INDIA) is a multi-center stroke trial involving 25 centers under the Indian Stroke Clinical Trial Network. Patients with first ever sub-acute stroke within two days to three months of onset, age 18–85 years, mRS <5, showing recent stroke in imaging are included. Participants or caregivers able to read and complete tasks suggested in a stroke prevention workbook and have a cellular device for receiving short message service and watching videos. A total of 5830 stroke patients speaking 11 different languages are being randomized to intervention or control arm. Patients in the intervention arm are receiving a stroke prevention workbook, regular educational short messages, and videos. All patients in the control arm are receiving standard of care management. Summary: Structured semi-interactive stroke prevention package may reduce the risk of recurrent strokes, acute coronary artery syndrome, and death in patients with sub-acute stroke. Trial registration: This trial is registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03228979) and CTRI (Clinical Trial Registry India; CTRI/2017/09/009600). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of blood pressure (BP) reduction on cerebral blood flow (CBF) in acute ischemic stroke is unknown. We measured regional CBF with perfusion-weighted MRI before and after BP treatment in a three-armed non-randomized prospective controlled trial. Treatment arm assignment was based on acute mean arterial pressure (MAP). Patients with (MAP) >120 mmHg (n = 14) were treated with intravenous labetalol and sublingual (SL) nitroglycerin (labetalol group). Those with MAP 100–120 mmHg (n = 17) were treated with SL nitroglycerin (0.3 mg) ('NTG Group') and those with baseline MAP<100 mmHg (n = 18) were not treated with antihypertensive drugs (untreated group). Forty-nine patients (18 female, mean age 65.3 ± 12.9 years) were serially imaged. Labetalol reduced MAP by 12.5 (5.7–17.7) mmHg, p = 0.0002. MAP remained stable in the NTG (6.0 (0.4–16, p = 0.3) mmHg and untreated groups (−0.3 (−2.3–7.0, p = 0.2) mmHg. The volume of total hypoperfused tissue (CBF<18 ml/100 g/min) did not increase after labetalol (−1.1 ((−6.5)–(−0.2)) ml, p = 0.1), NTG (0 ((−1.5)–4.5) ml, p = 0.72), or no treatment 0.25 ((−10.1)–4.5) ml, p = 0.87). Antihypertensive therapy, based on presenting BP, in acute stroke patients was not associated with an increased volume of total hypoperfused tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the long-term effectiveness of Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) combined with Physical therapy (PT) as compared to PT alone for improving arm functions in patients with acute stroke. Design: Single blind randomized controlled trial. Setting: Outpatient clinics and inpatient wards at tertiary care neurology center. Subjects: Adult patients with acute middle cerebral artery territory ischemic stroke. Interventions: 60 patients were randomized into three groups of 20 each: TBS+PT; FES+PT; and PT alone. TBS group received intermittent TBS of ipsilesional hemisphere and continuous TBS of contralesional hemisphere while FES group received FES of paretic limb, both for four weeks. All groups received supervised physical therapy for four weeks followed by home physiotherapy for one year. Outcome measures: Fugl Meyer Assessment upper limb score (FMA-UL) was primary outcome measure. Patients were evaluated at baseline and subsequently at one, three and six months and one year. Results: Compared to PT group, mean FMA-UL scores were higher in TBS and FES groups at all follow-ups (P < 0.001). From baseline to one year, mean (SD) FMA-UL scores increased from 14.9(2.1) to 55.55(2.46) in TBS group, 15.5(1.99) to 55.85(2.46) in FES group, and 14.3(2.2) to 43.3(4.22) in PT group indicating an increase of 273%, 260%, and 203% respectively. There was no difference between FES and TBS groups. Conclusion: A four-week intervention with TBS or FES combined with PT produces better long-term arm functions as compared to PT alone in patients with acute stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strongyloides stercoralis (SS) is one of the most overlooked helminthic infections despite being highly endemic in tropical and subtropical areas. In immunocompromised patients, especially those on long-term steroids, infection can often escalate to fatal dissemination into major organs. We present a compendium of two immunocompromised patients, who were on high-dose steroids and presented with worsening neurological status. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis was notable for larvae of SS as diagnosed by direct visualization. A syndrome of SS hyperinfection with dissemination was made after stool, and sputum samples also revealed SS larvae. SS is an elusive disease and should be considered early on, especially in endemic regions like India. Early diagnosis and prompt initiation of antihelminthic therapy is indispensable for favorable outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leukoaraiosis regions may be more vulnerable to decreases in cerebral perfusion. We aimed to assess perfusion in leukoaraiosis regions in acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients. We tested the hypothesis that aggressive acute BP reduction in ICH patients is associated with hypoperfusion in areas of leukoaraiosis. In the ICH Acutely Decreasing Arterial Pressure Trial (ICH ADAPT), patients with ICH <24 hours duration were randomized to two systolic BP (SBP) target groups (<150 mmHg vs. <180 mmHg). Computed tomography perfusion (CTP) imaging was performed 2h post-randomization. Leukoaraiosis tissue volumes were planimetrically measured using semi-automated threshold techniques on the acute non-contrast CT. CTP source leukoaraiosis region-of-interest object maps were co-registered with CTP post-processed maps to assess cerebral perfusion in these areas. Seventy-one patients were included with a mean age of 69±11.4 years, 52 of whom had leukoaraiosis. The mean relative Tmax (rTmax) of leukoaraiotic tissue (2.3±2s) was prolonged compared to that of normal appearing white matter in patients without leukoaraiosis (1.1±1.2s, p = 0.04). In the 52 patients with leukoaraiosis, SBP in the aggressive treatment group (145±20.4 mmHg, n = 27) was significantly lower than that in the conservative group (159.9±13.1 mmHg, n = 25, p = 0.001) at the time of CTP. Despite this SBP difference, mean leukoaraiosis rTmax was similar in the two treatment groups (2.6±2.3 vs. 1.8±1.6 seconds, p = 0.3). Cerebral perfusion in tissue affected by leukoaraiosis is hypoperfused in acute ICH patients. Aggressive BP reduction does not appear to acutely aggravate cerebral hypoperfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clot retraction in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) has been described and postulated to be related to effective hemostasis and perihematoma edema (PHE) formation. The incidence and quantitative extent of hematoma retraction (HR) is unknown. Our aim was to determine the incidence of HR between baseline and time of admission. We also tested the hypothesis that patients with HR had higher PHE volume and good prognosis. Methods: This was a retrospective single-centre study in which serial planimetric volume measurements of the total hematoma volume (parenchymal (IPH) and intraventricular (IVH)) and PHE were performed in ICH patients with baseline non-contrast computed tomography (CT) completed within 6 hours of onset and follow-up CT 24 (±12) hours from symptom onset. HR was defined as a decrease in volume of >3ml or >15%, and hematoma expansion (HE) as an increase of >6ml or >30%. All other patients were categorized as stable hematoma (HS). Good outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0–2 at 90 days. Results: A total of 136 patients (mean age = 69.3±13.39 years, 58.1% male) were included. Median (interquartile range) baseline total hematoma volume was 14.96 (7.80, 31.88) ml. HR >3ml and >15% occurred in 6 (4.4%) and 8 (5.9%) patients, respectively. Neither definition of HR was associated with follow-up PHE (p>0.297) or good outcome (p>0.249). IVH was the only independent predictor of HR (p<0.0241). Conclusions: Early HR is rare and associated with IVH, but not with PHE or clinical outcome. There was no relationship between HR, PHE, and patient prognosis. Therefore, HR is unlikely to be a useful endpoint in clinical ICH studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Data on intravenous (IV) thrombolysis using tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) are limited from low‑ and middle‑income countries. We aimed to assess the quality indicators of IV thrombolysis in our stroke unit. Methods All stroke patients admitted in our hospital from October 2008 to April 2017 were included in this study. Data were collected prospectively by trained research staff in a detailed case record form. Outcome was assessed using modified Rankin Scale (mRS, 0–1 good outcome). Results: Of the total 4720 stroke patients seen, 944 (20%) came within window period (<4.5 h). Of these, 214 (4.5%) were eligible for thrombolysis and 170 (3.6%) were thrombolysed, relatives of 23 (23/214, 10.7%) patients denied consent, and 21 (9.8%) patients could not afford tPA. The mean age of thrombolysed patients was 58.4 (range 19–95) years. Median NIHSS at admission was 12 (interquartile range 2–24). Average onset‑to‑door (O‑D) time was 76.8 (5–219) min, door‑to‑examination (D‑E) time was 17.8 (5–105) min, door‑to‑CT (D‑CT) time was 48 (1–205) min, and door‑to‑needle (D‑N) time was 90 (20–285) min. At 6 months, 110 (64.7%) patients were contactable and 82 (74.5%) patients had good outcome (mRS 0–1). Conclusion: Thrombolysis rate has steadily increased at the center without undue adverse effects even in the elderly. D‑E and D‑CT times have reduced, but O‑D and D‑N times need further improvement. More patients could be thrombolysed if the cost of tPA is reduced and the consent process is waived. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The burden of stroke in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is large and increasing, challenging the already stretched health-care services. Aims and Objectives: To determine the quality of existing stroke-care services in LMICs and to highlight indigenous, inexpensive, evidence-based implementable strategies being used in stroke-care. Methods: A detailed literature search was undertaken using PubMed and Google scholar from January 1966 to October 2015 using a range of search terms. Of 921 publications, 373 papers were shortlisted and 31 articles on existing stroke-services were included. Results: We identified efficient models of ambulance transport and pre-notification. Stroke Units (SU) are available in some countries, but are relatively sparse and mostly provided by the private sector. Very few patients were thrombolysed; this could be increased with telemedicine and governmental subsidies. Adherence to secondary preventive drugs is affected by limited availability and affordability, emphasizing the importance of primary prevention. Training of paramedics, care-givers and nurses in post-stroke care is feasible. Conclusion: In this systematic review, we found several reports on evidence-based implementable stroke services in LMICs. Some strategies are economic, feasible and reproducible but remain untested. Data on their outcomes and sustainability is limited. Further research on implementation of locally and regionally adapted stroke-services and cost-effective secondary prevention programs should be a priority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aggressively lowering blood pressure (BP) in acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) may improve outcome. Although there is no evidence that BP reduction changes cerebral blood flow, retrospective magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies have demonstrated sub-acute ischemic lesions in ICH patients. The primary aim of this study is to assess ischemic lesion development in patients randomized to two different BP treatment strategies. We hypothesize aggressive BP reduction is not associated with ischemic injury after ICH.Methods: The Intracerebral Hemorrhage Acutely Decreasing Blood Pressure Trial II (ICH ADAPT II) is a phase II multi-centre randomized open-label, blinded-endpoint trial. Acute ICH patients (N = 270) are randomized to a systolic blood pressure (SBP) target of <140 or <180 mmHg. Acute ICH patients within 6 h of onset and two SBP measurements ≥140 mmHg recorded >2 mins apart qualify. SBP is managed with a pre-defined treatment protocol. Patients undergo MRI at 48 h, Days 7 and 30, with clinical assessment at Day 30 and 90. The primary outcome is diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) lesion frequency at 48 h. Secondary outcomes include cumulative DWI lesion rate frequency within 30 days, absolute hematoma growth, prediction of DWI lesion incidence, 30-day mortality rates, day 90 functional outcome, and cognitive status.Discussion: This trial will assess the impact of hypertensive therapies on physiological markers of ischemic injury. The findings of this study will provide evidence for the link, or lack thereof, between BP reduction and ischemic injury in ICH patients.Trial Registration: This study is registered with clinicaltrials.gov  ( NCT02281838 , first received October 29, 2014). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Temporary and permanent cognitive changes following transient ischemic attack/minor stroke have been described previously. It is unknown if persisting cognitive deficits in these patients are correlated with acute infarction identified using magnetic resonance imaging. Aims: We tested the hypothesis that persistent cognitive impairment after transient ischemic attack/minor stroke can be predicted by the volume of diffusion-weighted imaging lesions. Methods: Acute transient ischemic attack/minor stroke (NIH stroke scale score⩽3) patients were prospectively recruited within 72 h of onset. Patients underwent Montreal cognitive assessment and magnetic resonance imaging, including diffusion-weighted imaging and Fluid-Attenuated Inverse Recovery sequences, at baseline, days 7 and 30. Cognitive testing was repeated at day 90. Diffusion-weighted imaging lesion and Fluid-Attenuated Inverse Recovery chronic white matter hyperintensity volumes were measured planimetrically. Cognitive impairment was defined a priori as Montreal cognitive assessment score<26. Results: One hundred fifteen patients were imaged at a median (inter-quartile range) of 24.0 (16.6) h after onset. Acute ischemic lesions were present in 91 (79%) patients. Cognitive impairment rates were similar in patients with (47/91, 52%) and without diffusion-weighted imaging lesions (13/24, 54%; p=0.83). Although linear regression indicated no relationship between acute diffusion-weighted imaging lesion volume and day 30 Montreal cognitive assessment scores (β=-0.163, [-2.243, 0.334], p=0.144), white matter hyperintensity volumes at baseline were predictive of persistent cognitive deficits after 30 days (β=2.24, [1.956, 45.369], p=0.005). Conclusions: In most transient ischemic attack/minor stroke patients who suffer acute cognitive impairment post event, deficits are temporary. Deficits after 30 days of onset are correlated with chronic white matter hyperintensity, suggesting subclinical cognitive impairment and/or impaired ability to compensate for the effects of acute ischemic infarcts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To investigate gradient-echo phase errors caused by intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) of low signal magnitude, and propose methods to reduce artifacts from phase errors in quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) of ICH. Methods Two QSM methods are proposed: (1) mask-inversion that masks the phase of low signal magnitude regions, and (2) ICH magnetic dipole field isolation followed by susceptibility superposition using multiple boundaries for background field removal. The reconstruction methods were tested in eight subjects with ICH using standard single-echo susceptibility-weighted imaging at 1.5 Tesla with 40 ms echo time. Different phase unwrapping algorithms were also compared. Results Significant phase errors were evident inside ICHs with low signal magnitude. The mask-inversion method recovered susceptibility of ICH in numerical simulation and minimized phase error propagation in patients with ICH. The additional superposed dipole inversion process substantially suppressed and constrained streaking artifacts in all subjects. Using the proposed superposition method, ICH susceptibilities measured from long and short echo times were similar. Laplacian based phase unwrapping substantially underestimated the ICH dipole field as compared to a path-based method. Conclusion The proposed methods of mask-inversion as well as ICH isolation and superposition can substantially reduce artifacts in QSM of ICH. Magn Reson Med 76:781-791, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Prognostic evaluation based on cortical vein score difference in stroke (PRECISE) score, a novel venous grading scale better predicted stroke outcomes. Henceforth, we aimed to describe and determine if a physiologically relevant combined arterial and venous grading scale (CRISP grading scale) is accurate in determining 90-day stroke outcomes in patients with proximal arterial occlusion in the anterior circulation. Methods: Data are from the Keimyung Stroke Registry. Consecutive patients with M1 middle cerebral artery (MCA) or terminal internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion on CT-angiography (CTA) from May-2004 to July-2008 were included. The affected hemisphere 'four veins composite score' and 'arterial collaterals' were each graded 'good' and 'poor'. On the combined scale, a 'good' grade represented a 'good' score on both scales and a 'poor' grade represented a 'poor' score on both scales. The 'other two' combinations were graded 'intermediate.' Results: Eighty-one patients were included in the study. Dummy variable regression analysis demonstrated that poor outcome was commonly seen in the group with poor arterial and venous grades [OR(95%CI); 48 (8.24, 279.598); P < 0.00001] as opposed to poor arterial collaterals alone [OR(95%CI); 9.6(1.483,62.162); P = 0.018]. In multivariate analysis the CRISP grade [OR(95%CI); 2.638(1.192, 6.039), P = 0.017] and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [OR(95%CI);1.230(1.085, 1.395),P = 0.001(per unit increase)] emerged as the independent predictors of poor outcome (modified Rankin Scale >2) when adjusted for other imaging predictors of outcome. Conclusion: CRISP grading was precise in predicting stroke outcomes when compared to individual imaging scales including arterial collateral grading, PRECISE score and CTA-SI ASPECTS in patients with proximal arterial occlusion in the anterior circulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statin therapy has been associated with improved cerebral blood flow (CBF) and decreased perihematoma edema in animal models of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We aimed to assess the relationship between statin use and cerebral hemodynamics in ICH patients. A post hoc analysis of 73 ICH patients enrolled in the Intracerebral Hemorrhage Acutely Decreasing Arterial Pressure Trial (ICH ADAPT). Patients presenting <24 hours from ICH onset were randomized to a systolic blood pressure target <150 or <180 mm Hg with computed tomography perfusion imaging 2 hours after randomization. Cerebral blood flow maps were calculated. Hematoma and edema volumes were measured planimetrically. Regression models were used to assess the relationship between statin use, perihematoma edema and cerebral hemodynamics. Fourteen patients (19%) were taking statins at the time of ICH. Statin-treated patients had similar median (IQR Q25 to 75) hematoma volumes (21.1 (9.5 to 38.3) mL versus 14.5 (5.6 to 27.7) mL, P=0.25), but larger median (IQR Q25 to 75) perihematoma edema volumes (2.9 (1.7 to 9.0) mL versus 2.2 (0.8 to 3.5) mL, P=0.02) compared with nontreated patients. Perihematoma and ipsilateral hemispheric CBF were similar in both groups. A multivariate linear regression model revealed that statin use and hematoma volumes were independent predictors of acute edema volumes. Statin use does not affect CBF in ICH patients. Statin use, along with hematoma volume, are independently associated with increased perihematoma edema volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Perfusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging is not routinely used to investigate stroke/transient ischemic attack. Many clinicians use perfusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging selectively in patients with more severe neurological deficits, but optimal selection criteria have never been identified. Aims and/or Hypothesis We tested the hypothesis that a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score threshold can be used to predict the presence of perfusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging deficits in patients with acute ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack. Methods National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores were prospectively assessed in 131 acute stroke/transient ischemic attack patients followed by magnetic resonance imaging, including perfusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging within 72 h of symptom onset. Patients were dichotomized based on the presence or absence of perfusion deficits using a threshold of Tmax (time to peak maps after the impulse response) delay ≥four-seconds and a hypoperfused tissue volume of ≥1 ml. Results Patients with perfusion deficits (77/131, 59%) had higher median (interquartile range) National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores (8 [12]) than those without perfusion deficits (3 [4], P < 0·001). A receiver operator characteristic analysis indicated poor to moderate sensitivity of National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores for predicting perfusion deficits (area under the curve = 0·787). A National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of ≥6 was associated with specificity of 85%, but sensitivity of only 69%. No National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score threshold identified all cases of perfusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging deficits with sensitivity >94%. Conclusions Although higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores are predictive of perfusion deficits, many patients with no clinically detectable signs have persisting cerebral blood flow changes. A National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score threshold should therefore not be used to select patients for perfusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Perfusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging should be considered in all patients presenting with acute focal neurological deficits, even if these deficits are transient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood pressure (BP) reduction after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is controversial, because of concerns that this may cause critical reductions in perihematoma perfusion and thereby precipitate tissue damage. We tested the hypothesis that BP reduction reduces perihematoma tissue oxygenation.Acute ICH patients were randomized to a systolic BP target of <150 or <180 mm Hg. Patients underwent CT perfusion (CTP) imaging 2 hours after randomization. Maps of cerebral blood flow (CBF), maximum oxygen extraction fraction (OEFmax), and the resulting maximum cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2max) permitted by local hemodynamics, were calculated from raw CTP data.Sixty-five patients (median (interquartile range) age 70 (20)) were imaged at a median (interquartile range) time from onset to CTP of 9.8 (13.6) hours. Mean OEFmax was elevated in the perihematoma region (0.44±0.12) relative to contralateral tissue (0.36±0.11; P<0.001). Perihematoma CMRO2max (3.40±1.67 mL/100 g per minute) was slightly lower relative to contralateral tissue (3.63±1.66 mL/100 g per minute; P=0.025). Despite a significant difference in systolic BP between the aggressive (140.5±18.7 mm Hg) and conservative (163.0±10.6 mm Hg; P<0.001) treatment groups, perihematoma CBF was unaffected (37.2±11.9 versus 35.8±9.6 mL/100 g per minute; P=0.307). Similarly, aggressive BP treatment did not affect perihematoma OEFmax (0.43±0.12 versus 0.45±0.11; P=0.232) or CMRO2max (3.16±1.66 versus 3.68±1.85 mL/100 g per minute; P=0.857). Blood pressure reduction does not affect perihematoma oxygen delivery. These data support the safety of early aggressive BP treatment in ICH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is rarely associated with Takayasu's arteritis (TA). The present report describes a 21-year-old woman with recurrent SAH and TA. In addition, she also had recurrent spells of postural weakness in the bilateral lower limb occurring at the same time. Sequential CT of the head and MRI showed bilateral cortical SAH. Vascular imaging with MR angiogram and CT angiogram showed bilateral subclavian arteries and left common carotid artery occlusion with multiple hypertrophied collaterals vessels in the neck. There was no evidence of aneurysms in the intracranial vasculature in the conventional angiogram. The CT angiogram of the aorta showed severe stenosis of the abdominal aorta above the renal arteries. The patient was treated with immunomodulatory therapy and had a favourable outcome without further recurrence at end of 1 year of follow-up. A review of the literature showed 21cases with aneurysmal SAH and three cases non-aneurysmal SAH in patients with TA have been reported. Various factors are responsible for the reorganisation of the intracranial of the arteries in patients with chronic vasculitis in the presence of extracranial stenosis and occlusion, which could possibly explain the SAH in absence of aneurysm in patients with TA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boucher-Neuhäuser syndrome (BNS) is rare autosomal recessive disease, characterised by cerebellar ataxia, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and chorio-retinal degeneration. The authors report a family (brother, 22 years and sister 24 years) with late-onset BNS (>10 years). They had subnormal intelligence; the cerebellar ataxia was progressive over 2 years with early functional dependence. Puberty was attained in a brother with testosterone injections, while the girl had primary amenorrhoea. There were no associated visual complaints. They both had diffuse periventricular white-matter hyperintensities in cerebral cortex and diffuse cerebellar atrophy in the MRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boucher-Neuhäuser syndrome (BNS) is rare autosomal recessive disease, characterised by cerebellar ataxia, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and chorio-retinal degeneration. The authors report a family (brother, 22 years and sister 24 years) with late-onset BNS (>10 years). They had subnormal intelligence; the cerebellar ataxia was progressive over 2 years with early functional dependence. Puberty was attained in a brother with testosterone injections, while the girl had primary amenorrhoea. There were no associated visual complaints. They both had diffuse periventricular whitematter hyperintensities in cerebral cortex and diffuse cerebellar atrophy in the MRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]