A study of usage of antithrombotics and predictors of haemorrhagic transformation after ischemic stroke

Abstract

Background :Haemorrhagic transformation (HT) is commonly encountered nowadays after ischemic stroke. Several factors affect HT after ischemic stroke. There are no guidelines nor studies in the literature suggesting the usage of  antithrombotics after HT. We sought to evaluate various factors and factors predicting HT after ischemic stroke and the usage of antithrombotics. Methods : This retrospective study included patients who presented to stroke ward of Madras Institute of Neurology with acute stroke during April 2016 to May 2016. Aggravation of haemorrhagic transformation was considered as increase of HT within the infarcted area or neurological deterioration of the patient Results: 32 patient were analysed. Of 32 patients 24 were male patients and 8 patients were female. 10 patients had evidence of atrial fibrillation or rheumatic heart disease on ecg or echo. 30 patients out of 32 had normal liver function tests. 28 patients had normal complete blood count. 20 out of 32 patients were diabetics and 13 out of 32 patients were hypertensives.  Coagulation profile was normal in 29 patients.  Patients were started immediately on   antiplatelets and monitored for 1 week and later followed up for 1 month. Conclusion :The treatment of patients with the above predictors should be conducted more carefully and as observed antiplatelet therapy in selected patients can be initiated immediately without complications.