A research team at the University of Minnesota Medical School has identified a strong predictor of ischemic stroke and dementia, a discovery that can lead to improved patient results. The findings have recently been published in Heart attack.
The team focused on identifying which marker of left -wing atrial myopathy – defined as a dysfunction of the left atrium of the heart – is the most reliable predictor of Ischemic stroke and dementia. Their research showed that the ability of the left atrium to stretch was the most accurate predictor.
Our research offers a meaningful improvement of the risk prediction that goes beyond traditional clinical factors. Our findings suggest that doctors can use this measurement to identify patients who run a higher risk and possibly need closer monitoring or preventive treatment. “
Lin Yee Chen, MD, MS, Professor at the U of M Medical School, Hartelectrophysiologist at M Health Fairview and director of the Lillehei Heart Institute
In a study of more than 4,700 older adults for eight years, researchers who developed stroke and dementia followed. They tested different measurements with regard to the left atrial heart function to see if anyone could better predict these conditions. Of all tested measurements, only two showed a significant improvement in prediction accuracy when added to the standard risk assessment tool that doctors usually use: the ability of the left atrium to stretch and a blood protein marker (NT-proBNP). The ability of the left atrium to expel – also known as the left atrial reservoir tribe – was the best predictor of stroke and dementia.
Dr. Chen and his employees are planning to conduct a clinical study of several center to determine whether oral anticoagulants – generally known as blood thinners – can reduce the risk of stroke and dementia in people with left -wing atrial myopathy. They will use the left atrial reservoir tribe to define atrial myopathy.
This investigation was funded by the National Institutes of Health [R01HL141288].