Association of Systemic inflammatory response index with intracranial plaque vulnerability and the severity of ischemic events

Motivation: The activation of inflammation can aggravate plaque rupture, thrombosis and cause brain tissue ischemia and infarction. Looking for reliable inflammatory markers might provide potential targets for the treatment of atherosclerosis patients. Goal(s): We investigated the relationship between systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI)and intracranial plaque features, as well as the risk factors related to the severity of cerebral ischemic events. Approach: Compare the differences in imaging features and SIRI among patients with transient ischemic attack, mild stroke, and moderate-severe stroke. Results: SIRI levels were significantly associated with plaque vulnerable characteristics and burden. Higher SIRIlevels and plaque featureswere independently related to moderate-severe stroke. Impact: Our study suggested that immune inflammation may have adverse effects on intracranial atherosclerosis, and link to the severity of cerebral ischemic events. Therefore, the regulation of immune inflammation may be a potential therapeutic target for sICAD.