TCD, MRA and MRI in acute cerebral ischemia

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Abstract
Objectives ‐ The aim of this study was to determine accuracy of transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) and compare efficacy of three non‐invasive tests [TCD, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)] in patients with acute cerebral ischemia. Material and methods ‐ This prospective study involved 30 patients. MRI, MRA, and TCD were performed within 24 h after onset of ictus. The 2nd MRI was repeated at 48–72 h and was used as the standard for the evaluation of sensitivity and specificity of MRA, TCD, and initial MRI. Results ‐ TCD showed a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 33% for recognizing abnormal cerebral blood flow velocities. MRA showed a sensitivity of 46% and a specificity of 75% for assessing intracranial vascular anatomy, while initial MRI revealed a sensitivity of 84% and a specificity of 100% for evaluation of ischemic parenchymal changes. Conclusion ‐ Our results revealed that TCD is an accurate indicator of blood flow status and correlated well with MRI, MRA abnormalities in acute stroke.