Cimt (carotid intima media thickness): as predictor of early mortality in acute ischemic stroke

Objectives: The present study was carried out with an aim to detect correlation of CIMT with mortality in acute ischemic stroke. Methods: After ethical considerations, this prospective observational study was conducted on 200 patients of acute ischenic stroke. The diagnosis of ischemic stroke was based on the clinical profile and confirmed by CT / MRI as defined by ASA/AHA. Results: Among the 200 patients studied age of patients with acute ischemic stroke ranged from 45-78 years with a mean age of 61.18±7.59 years. Majority of patients were in 51-70 years of age (n=43; 86%). CIMT values of left side ranged from 0.05cm to 0.10cm with a mean value of 0.074±0.012. At right side, CIMT values ranged from 0.06cm to 0.12cm with a mean value of 0.077±0.017. Average CIMT value ranged from 0.055cm to 0.11cm with a mean value of 0.075±0.013. After one month, a total of 44 (22%) patients showed improvement, 52(26%) showed survival without change in status. A total of 56 (28%) were lost to follow up and a total of 48 (24%) expired. Conclusion- Carotid intima media thickness in acute ischemic stroke patients did not provide any useful information with respect to outcome (short term mortality).