Recurrent ischemic stroke is associated with the burden of risk factors

Aim To determine the characteristics of acute ischemic stroke patients admitted to hospital with history of prior ischemic stroke(s). We hypothesized that there is an association between the number of risk factors and prior ischemic stroke irrespective of age. Methods All patients with acute ischemic stroke admitted to Haukeland University Hospital between 2006 and 2013 were registered in the NORSTROKE database. Variables included prior ischemic stroke(s) (based on self-report and patient records), risk factors, TOAST classification, and CT and MRI findings. Comparison was made between patients with prior ischemic stroke and first-ever ischemic stroke. Multivariate analyses were performed. Results In total, 2697 patients were included and 461 (17.1%) had a history of prior ischemic stroke(s). Logistic regression analyses showed that prior ischemic stroke was associated with the number of risk factors, leukoaraiosis, hypertension, atrial fibrillation, and atherosclerosis. Conclusion History of prior ischemic stroke in patients with acute ischemic stroke was associated with the burden of risk factors, atherosclerosis, and atrial fibrillation compared to first-ever ischemic stroke. This has important implications for secondary preventive treatment.