기저동맥의 조영증강에 영향을 미치는 요인과 임상적 의의

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Background : Although we frequently noticed the enhancement of the basilar artery on gadolinium enhanced T1 weighted MR image, determining factors and the significance of this phenomenon remains unknown. We postulated that low flow velocity may be associated with the contrast enhancement of the basilar artery. Methods : With the use of MRI and MRA, we prospectively evaluated the degree of contrast enhancement, the presence of lesions in posterior circulation territory and the diameter of the basilar artery. Sixty-seven stroke patients (male 35, female 32) were divided in three groups (Group 1: no enhancement, Group 2: partial enhancement, Group 3: strong enhancement of the basilar artery). Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography (TCD) was performed to measure the blood flow velocity at the proximal and distal basilar artery. Other factors including the blood pressure, hematocrit, age and symptoms and signs associated with disturbed posterior circulation were also evaluated. Results : Contrast enhancement of basilar artery was present in 33 (44.8%) patients. In TCD study, mean flow velocity was significantly lower in the strong and partial enhancement groups than no enhancement group (distal portion P〈0.01, proximal portion P〈0.05). Other factors such as age, hemoglobin, hematocrit and signs and symptoms associated with disturbed posterior circulation were not significantly different. Conclusions : Contrast enhancement in basilar artery indicates decreased blood flow velocity. Further long-term follow up studies are needed to clarify the clinical significance of this finding. Korean Journal of Stroke 2000;2(2): 175~180