Prevalence of peripheral arterial diseases in patients with large artery ischemic stroke and its prognostic value

Abstract Background Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can be an important predictor of comorbid cerebrovascular disease (CVD). However, it is not sufficiently investigated or considered in the management and prevention of stroke. Objectives To study the prevalence of peripheral arterial disease in large artery ischemic stroke patients and its impact on prognosis. Methods This is a prospective cohort study. A total of 100 patients with large artery ischemic stroke were enrolled with assessment for signs of PAD; duplex on both lower limb arteries and measurement of ankle-brachial index (ABI), carotid duplex, and/or C.T angiography brain and neck and/or conventional angiography; functional assessment by NIHSS at days 0, 7, and 30; and follow-up for recurrence or death after 6 months. Results Peripheral arterial disease was found in 42% of cases. Fifty percent of patients with lower extremity arterial disease were asymptomatic. Fifty percent had significant carotid stenosis (stenosis > 50%), and 48% of patients with significant carotid stenosis had peripheral arterial disease. During our study, 8 cases had a recurrence of large artery ischemic stroke, and 5 cases (62.5%) had PAD. The recurrence rate of stroke was the highest in the asymptomatic PAD group with 19%. Conclusion The prevalence of PAD in large artery ischemic stroke patients is high. Asymptomatic PAD has a risk potential for large artery ischemic stroke recurrence and mortality more than symptomatic PAD and non-PAD patients.