A Five-Point Score Grading System for Predicting Early Hematoma Expansion in Patients with Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background: Stroke is the second leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, with spontaneous Intracranial Hemorrhage (ICH) accounting for 9%-27% of all strokes. The study evaluates clinical and NCCT markers to predict early Hematoma Expansion (HE) in patients with Intracranial Hemorrhage (ICH), focusing on directing management objectives. Methods: We prospectively evaluated 96 patients with spontaneous ICH who underwent a baseline NCCT within four hours of admission, followed by a follow-up scan within six hours or at the time of clinical deterioration, whichever was earlier. Hematoma volumes were determined using baseline and follow-up CT images and imaging characteristics that predicted HE were evaluated. A grading system score was created to predict HE. Results: Of the ninety-six patients studied, 29 displayed black hole signs, 31 had island signs and 22 had swirl signs on baseline NCCT. On follow-up scans, the total incidence of HE in ICH patients was 53 out of 96 (55.2%). The average baseline hematoma volume in HE patients was 44.1 ml, compared to 12.2 ml in non-hematoma expansion patients. Of the 53 patients with HE, 29 had black hole sign, 16 had swirl sign and 28 had island sign. A higher grading system score (P < 0.001) was associated with a higher likelihood of HE.