High mortality rate in COVID-19–associated stroke, analysis of risk factors

In a preliminary analysis of a North American neurovascular consortium comprising 14 comprehensive stroke centres in the USA and Canada, Dmytriw et al on p XXX suggest that rates of mortality with COVID-19–associated stroke are greater than in COVID-19 or stroke in otherwise. Importantly, African American/black patients experience greater rates of mortality when suffering stroke compared with other races in this cohort. While this group had greater rates of diabetes mellitus, higher LDL levels and higher sICH, there were no definite other differences between them. Lower rates of tPA and EVT administration approached significance, but it is unclear whether this will be borne out as the consortium grows. The neurological insults associated with COVID-19 are becoming increasingly recognised. …