Clinical Report: Characteristics of Clinical Presentation and CT Angiography in Chinese Stroke Patients with Carotid Web
Overview
This study investigates the clinical and imaging characteristics of carotid web (CaW) in Chinese stroke patients, revealing a prevalence of 0.37% among a large cohort. Key findings include a significant association between lumen diameter at CaW sites and cerebral infarction, as well as a higher prevalence of hypertension in affected patients.
Background
Carotid web (CaW) is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for ischemic stroke, particularly in younger populations. Understanding its clinical and imaging characteristics is crucial for effective diagnosis and management, especially given the limited data from non-Western populations. This study addresses the gap in knowledge regarding CaW in the Chinese population.
Data Highlights
Characteristic
Value
Number of Patients
34
Mean Age
56.97 ± 14.75 years
Prevalence of CaW
0.37%
Location at CCA Bifurcation
88.1%
Cerebral Infarction Diagnosis
61.8%
Lumen Diameter (Cerebral Infarction vs Non-Infarction)
CaW was identified in 34 patients, predominantly males (32 males, 2 females).
The majority of CaWs (88.1%) were located at the common carotid artery bifurcation.
Cerebral infarction was the most common diagnosis, occurring in 61.8% of patients.
Significant differences in lumen diameter were observed between cerebral infarction and non-infarction groups (8.97 mm vs. 6.80 mm).
Hypertension was significantly more prevalent in the cerebral infarction group (76.2% vs. 23.1%).
Mild stenosis (1%-30%) was present in 64.7% of cases.
Clinical Implications
The findings underscore the importance of recognizing carotid web as a significant risk factor for ischemic stroke in the Chinese population. Clinicians should consider careful evaluation of CTA findings and hypertension management in patients diagnosed with CaW to mitigate stroke risk.
Conclusion
This study highlights the distinct clinical and imaging characteristics of carotid web in Chinese stroke patients, emphasizing the need for tailored management strategies. Further research is warranted to explore the implications of these findings in clinical practice.