Predictors of functional outcome in first-ever ischemic stroke: a special interest to ischemic subtypes, comorbidity and age.

OBJECTIVES: Most cardiovascular abnormalities are associated not only with increased risk of certain ischemic stroke subtypes but also with markedly greater disability in stroke patients. We aimed to investigate the associations between age, comorbidity, cardiovascular problems, site and size of ischemic lesions and functional outcome in inpatient first-ever ischemic stroke patients.
SUBJECTS: A total of 129 first-ever ischemic stroke admissions to a university affiliated rehabilitation centre were involved.
METHODS: Demographic data, brain computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging reports of the patients were recorded. Cardiovascular parameters consisted of electrocardiographic, echocardiographic and carotid Doppler ultrasonographic findings. Location and size of ischemic lesions was determined by using the Oxfordshire Community Stroke Project classification. Charlson Comorbidity index adjusted for ischemic stroke was used to assess associated health problems. Functional recovery was defined as the improvements made on Functional Independence Measure.
RESULTS: Our data indicated that the presence of chronic atrial fibrillation and carotid stenosis had significant associations with total anterior circulation infarcts. Multivariate analyses revealed that age, Charlson Comorbidity index adjusted for ischemic stroke, total anterior circulation infarcts, Functional Independence Measure on admission were associated with rehabilitation outcomes.
CONCLUSIONS: Advanced age, high comorbidity, large anterior circulation infarcts and poor functional level on admission were independent indicators of unfavorable functional outcome. Hemodynamic comorbidities had significant impact on localization and extend of ischemic lesions.