Publication:

A study of carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) in cases of ischemic stroke

Background Measurement of Carotid Intima Media Thickness (CIMT) by carotid doppler is a non-invasive, safe and inexpensive investigation. CIMT may predict ischaemic stroke. However, the data about the usefulness of CIMT as a predictor in Indian scenario is relatively less. The primary objective of the present study was to determine utility of CIMT as a predictor of ischemic stroke.

Methods This study was a case control study carried out at a tertiary care institute. The study included fifty cases of ischaemic stroke. Fifty age and sex matched controls were selected who were not relatives of cases.

Results A detailed history of cases and controls was taken. They were subjected to routine investigations; blood sugars and lipid profile were sent.  CIMT was measured by doing carotid doppler study on both sided carotid arteries. The results were analysed.

Conclusions From this study, we concluded that there is increase in CIMT in patients of ischemic stroke. Age, gender and side of the vessel had no significant effect on CIMT. It was concluded that CIMT value has a direct correlation with ischemic stroke. Thus, Carotid intima media thickness can be used as a non-invasive predictor of future ischemic stroke incidence.