Background and aims
The utility of proposed non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) markers for the prediction of hematoma expansion in patients with antithrombotic-related spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is limited. Additionally, there is significant overlap between different suggested ICH shape and density markers.
Methods
We assessed the prognostic yield for hematoma expansion of a combined score incorporating features of ICH shape irregularity (satellite sign and/or Barras score ≥ 3), heterogeneous ICH density (swirl sign and/or Barras score ≥ 3) on baseline NCCT and timing from ICH onset to NCCT.
Results
We evaluated data from 79 patients with antithrombotic-related spontaneous ICH (32% with hematoma expansion). Swirl (84% vs. 39%) and satellite signs (20% vs. 7%) on baseline NCCT were significantly more prevalent (
p < 0.001) in patients with hematoma expansion. Patients with hematoma expansion had more irregular and heterogeneous bleeds on baseline NCCT scans, as quantified by higher (
p < 0.001) Barras shape (4 (4–5) vs. 3 (2–4)) and density scores (4 (3–5) vs. 2 (1–3)), respectively. The overall diagnostic yield of the combined score (area under the curve: 0.86, 95%CI: 0.78–0.94) significantly outperformed (
p < 0.001) the diagnostic yield of each individual marker. Scores of 4 or 5 in the combined score were associated with a sensitivity of 60.0%, specificity of 90.7%, overall diagnostic accuracy of 81.0%, positive likelihood ratio (LR) of 6.48, negative LR of 0.44, positive predictive value (PV) of 0.76 and negative PV of 0.83.
Conclusion
Combined NCCT marker assessment seems to increase the prognostic accuracy for hematoma expansion in antithrombotic-related spontaneous ICH patients.