Clinical Significance of Microembolic Signal Detection in Acute Ischemic Stroke: Insights Into Ongoing Cerebral Embolization and Occult Etiologies.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Transcranial Doppler (TCD) detects microembolic signals (MES), reflecting ongoing cerebral embolization. MES have been studied across stroke subtypes and may clarify etiology, monitor treatment, and predict recurrence. We aimed to determine the prevalence of MES in acute ischemic stroke (AIS), explore clinical and laboratory associations, and assess their role in etiological workup.

Methods

We conducted a prospective single-center study over 3 years including anterior circulation AIS patients within 24 h of onset. Stroke subtype was classified by TOAST criteria. Bilateral middle cerebral artery TCD monitoring was performed for 30 min to detect and quantify MES.

Results

Among 136 patients (mean age 60.1 ± 12.4 years), MES were detected in 22 (16.

SUBMITTER: Bakola E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12947245 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature