Predictive value of perfusion defect size using N-isopropyl-(I-123)-p-iodoamphetamine emission tomography in acute stroke.

Sixteen patients with acute cerebral infarction who were studied with N-isopropyl-I-123-p-iodoamphetamine (IMP) brain scans were followed to determine if the extent of perfusion abnormality was predictive of the clinical course. Lesion size and diminished density on the scans appeared to correlate well with presenting symptoms, but were not predictive of outcome. When evaluated by IMP scanning in conjunction with computerized tomography, however, a group of patients could be identified in whom therapy may improve prognosis.