J Korean Neurol Assoc.  2006 Oct;24(5):435-439.

Progression or Regression of Middle Cerebral Artery Stenosis: a Long-term Follow-up Study with Transcranial Doppler Ultrasonography

• Kim SM
• Kim HK
• Kim BJ
• Lee YS

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Atherosclerosis of intracranial vessels may progress or regress, however, the natural course of middle cerebral artery (MCA) stenosis has not been known well. Using Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, we attempt to reveal the frequency and the associated factors about progression or regression of MCA stenosis.
METHODS
Among patients with MCA stenosis on MRA (>50% narrowing), objects with repeated TCD examinations (interval >6 months) were included. Mean flow velocity (MFV) changes over than 30 cm/sec were used as criteria for progression, stationary or regression of MCA stenosis. Demographic data, risk factors, and medications were assessed to identify predictors of progression or regression.
RESULTS
Eighty-one MCA segments were analyzed (36 males, mean age 64 years). Mean follow-up period was 614 days (210~1457 days). Progression and regression were detected in 18.5% and 14.8%. With multivariate regression analysis, no clinical profiles, risk factors, medications were associated with progression or regression of MCA stenosis.
CONCLUSIONS
With long term follow up, progression and regression of MCA stenosis is not uncommon, which means the intracranial atherosclerosis is a dynamic process. TCD seems to be useful in detecting progression or regression of MCA stenosis with optimal criteria. Predicting factors for progression and regression remain to be determined by further prospective, well-designed studies.

Keyword

Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography; Middle cerebral artery; Stenosis; Progression

MeSH Terms

Atherosclerosis
Constriction, Pathologic*
Follow-Up Studies*
Humans
Intracranial Arteriosclerosis
Male
Middle Cerebral Artery*
Risk Factors
Ultrasonography, Doppler, Transcranial*