Background and aims. Striatocapsular infarction is a cerebrovascular event characterized by damage to the basal ganglia and adjacent white matter regions, often leading to various neurological deficits. This research paper explores the profile of patients with striatocapsular infarction, discussing clinical manifestations, pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies.
Methods. A prospective case series of patients with striatocapsular infarction in a tertiary hospital underwent diagnostic evaluations to determine the exact stroke etiology.
Results. Between November 2022 to November 2023, 13 patients were diagnosed as striatocapsular infarction. Median age was 50 +15.6 years, with majority being females (62%). Wake-up stroke was reported in 46% of cases. Initial NIHSS was 9 + 4.5, presenting with hemiparesis (100%), hemisensory loss (54%), dysarthria (54%), visual field defects (15%), aphasia (31%), and neglect (8%). Majority had hypertension (62%). Other risk factors were diabetes mellitus (38%), heart failure (38%), coronary artery disease (8%), and atrial fibrillation (23%). The study also found dyslipidemia (62%), uncontrolled blood sugar (23%), and a depressed ejection fraction (38%). Magnetic resonance angiography revealed occlusion (8%) and atherosclerotic vessels (31%). Heart failure and atrial fibrillation were found to have a 60% and 100% risk of hemorrhagic conversion, respectively. Majority had significant improvement (NIHSS 5 + 3.9) with one case achieving complete resolution of symptoms.
Conclusion. Striatocapsular infarction is a deep hemispheric stroke presenting with cortical and subcortical symptoms. A thorough understanding of its clinical features and pathophysiology is required for optimal patient care.