Neurology (Stroke)

Abstract

Background: Cerebral artery stenosis is an important risk factor for ischemic strokes. This study aims to explore intracranial and extracranial artery stenosis in a large northeast Chinese cohort. Methods: We recruited 14793 outpatients and hospitalized patients to identify cerebral artery stenosis. Artery stenosis screening was done with transcranial Doppler (TCD) for intracranial arteries and carotid duplex sonography for extracranial arteries. Results: More intracranial than extracranial artery stenoses were identified (4255 versus 2809, i.e. 28.8% versus 19.0%, P<0.05). Similarly, mere intracranial stenosis was significantly more common than extracranial artery stenosis in this population (2632 versus 1186, i.e. 17.8% versus 8%, P<0.05). Among all identified intracranial arteries stenoses, the proportion of middle cerebral artery (MCA) stenosis was the highest. More intracranial than extracranial artery stenoses was seen within each age group, and rates of both increased with age. Intracranial and extracranial artery stenosis was more frequently identified in males than females. Conclusions: Incidence of cerebral artery stenosis in the population increases with age. Intracranial artery stenosis is more common than extracranial artery stenosis and the MCA stenosis accounted for the highest proportion, within each age group. More males suffer from intracranial or extracranial artery stenosis than females.