Browse Neurology Articles by Topic

Small Fiber Neuropathy in Post-COVID Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

This study examines small fiber neuropathy (SFN) in post-COVID patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). While ME/CFS patients reported more SFN symptoms, objective testing showed limited diagnostic value beyond heat/cold detection differences.

Should Thrombolytic Drugs Be Added to Mechanical Thrombectomy in Acute Stroke?

Two recent trials from China studied the effect of post-thrombectomy, intra-arterial thrombolysis on neurological outcomes. One study used tenecteplase and the other used urokinase. Both studies showed a trend toward improvement that was not statistically significant, and there was an increase in brain hemorrhage. The benefit of adjunctive thrombolysis with mechanical thrombectomy is uncertain and requires more study.

Migraine and Ischemic Vascular Disease: The Search for the Missing Link

The presence of traditional vascular risk factors does not explain the increased incidence of ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction in patients with migraine. The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs does not increase the risk of ischemic stroke or myocardial infarction in migraineurs.

Modifiable Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Late-Life Brain Health

The major modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases are delineated in Life’s Essential 8 (LE8), developed by the American Heart Association. These risk factors are blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, body mass index, smoking, physical activity, diet, and sleep duration. The investigators in this analysis of two large databases in the United Kingdom and the United States demonstrated that cardiovascular health, as defined by the LE8, will also predict brain health later in life.

Treating Hereditary TTR Amyloid Polyneuropathy with Patisiran

A five-year study on patisiran for hereditary transthyretin (TTR) amyloid polyneuropathy found that 65% of patients had stable or improved neuropathy, with better outcomes linked to early treatment. Despite efficacy, 19.4% of patients died. The study underscores the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in managing this progressive disease.

Determinants of Long-Term Outcome After Concussion

This cohort study of U.S. veterans found that mild traumatic brain injuries occurring alongside psychological trauma are associated with long-term post-concussive symptoms and disability. The authors postulate that the traumatic context contributes to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder, which may in turn potentiate long-term sequelae.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Tai Chi for Older Adults with Sleep Disorders and MCI

This study showed improvement in sleep and cognitive endpoints in patients with sleep disorders and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) treated with a combination of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and tai chi chuan.

Transfusion Therapy in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

The SAHARA trial evaluated liberal vs. restrictive red blood cell transfusion strategies in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients with anemia. No significant difference in neurological outcomes at 12 months was found. Findings add to existing uncertainty regarding transfusion thresholds in SAH, highlighting the need for further research.

Diagnosis and Outcome of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a rare disorder characterized by thunderclap headaches and cerebral vasoconstriction resolving within 90 days. A retrospective study of 80 patients found favorable outcomes, with most treated using calcium channel blockers. However, challenges in RCVS diagnosis and classification may affect reported outcomes.

Stroke in Young Adults

Although stroke once was considered primarily a disease of older adults, recent epidemiological data underscore a rising incidence in younger populations worldwide. This article will define the scope of young adult stroke, discuss its epidemiology and pathophysiology, highlight the wide etiological spectrum, delve into clinical diagnostic steps, offer a practical framework for management, and conclude with a summary that emphasizes the persistent practice gap.