Stroke subtypes and factors associated with ischemic stroke in Kinshasa, Central Africa

ML Tshikwela, FB Londa, SY Tongo

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Ischemic stroke causes death and disability worldwide. Better understanding and controlling factors associated will improve the prevention of the disease. This study reviews records of patients with ischemic stroke in Central Africa.

Material and methods: Patients of Bantu ethnicity with clinical diagnosis of stroke and lesion on computed tomography scan from January 2011 to December 2012 were selected. Computed tomographic subtypes of ischemic stroke and factors associated were considered with tropical seasonal variation.

Results: Of the 303 first-ever stroke patients (average age 53 years old, range 3- 84 years old; 62% male) were included in the study. The prevalence of computed tomography stroke subtypes was: lacunar infarct (63%) and non lacunar infarct lesion (37%). Silent brain infarct was seen in 9 % of patients. Prevalence of factors associated with ischemic stroke was: age≥60 years old (55%); male gender (63%), chronic and uncontrolled hypertension (54%) and type 2 Diabetes mellitus (11%). A seasonal high prevalence was observed in warmer season (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: This study shows a high prevalence of lacunar infarct than non lacunar in Bantu of Central Africa.

Keywords: Ischemic stroke, CT subtypes, Factors associated, Central Africans.