FIBRINOGEN DEPLETION AND INTRACEREBRAL HEMORRHAGE AFTER THROMBOLYSIS FOR ISCHEMIC STROKE: A META-ANALYSIS (ID 386)
Abstract
Background And Aims
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) can be a fatal complication of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) for acute ischemic stroke. An early coagulopathy can develop after IVT, in relation to a significant fibrinogen depletion, increasing the risk of ICH. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at defining the role of fibrinogen depletion after IVT on the risk of ICH after IVT
Methods
Protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020124241) and followed PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. We systematically searched English studies reporting rates of post-IVT ICH depending on fibrinogen depletion until 7/1/2021. Primary outcome was symptomatic ICH (sICH). Meta-analysis followed random-effect model to account for heterogeneity in design and timing of ascertainments. Bias were assessed via Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.
Results
Overall, among 352 records identified, 5 observational studies were eligible for quantitative synthesis (n=2142), all of fair quality. Considering sICH within 24-36 h post-IVT, pooling data from 4 studies (n=1753) fibrinogen depletion consistently increased the risk of sICH (OR 3.67, 95%CI 2.28-5.90, pheterogeneity=0.55). Pooling adjusted estimated for age, gender and NIHSS from 3 studies (n=723), fibrinogen depletion was confirmed to significantly increase the risk of ICH after IVT (OR 5.41, 95%CI 2.96-9.89).
Conclusions
Fibrinogen depletion significantly increases the risk of ICH after IVT for acute ischemic stroke. Routine fibrinogen assessment might be considered to identify people at higher risk of ICH. As fibrinogen repletion is feasible, trials should investigate its efficacy in preventing ICH, potentially increasing the net benefit profile of IVT in acute ischemic stroke.
Trial Registration Number
Not applicable
