Effect of Methylprednisolone on Ischemic Brain Edema After Temporary Occlusion of the Middle Cerebral Artery in Rats

We studied the effect of Methylpredisolone (MP) on ischemic brain edema after temporary occlusion of the middle cerebral artery for 90 min (MCAo90). We verified the presence of ischemic edema by determining the brain water content (BWC) by measuring dry/wet weight and by examining MRI - T2-weighted imaging, T2 relaxation times and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC). In another group, animals were administered MP intraperitoneally 30 min after MCAo90, followed by 24 h reperfusion (MCAoMP). Edema changes were documented by the same MRI examinations. A statistically significant increase in BWC was found between the post-MCAo90 group of animals and the intact animals, demonstrating the presence of edema in the former group. A statistically significant increase in ADC was observed in the MCAo group, indicating the presence of vasogenic edema. A statistically significant difference was demonstrated between the MCAo and MCAoMP groups, with no statistically significant difference between the CG and MCAoMP groups, demonstrating a reduction in ischemic brain swelling after MP administration. The main effect of MP on ischemic brain edema is attributed to its antioxidant capacity. It can be assumed that this capacity of MP, with its complex impact on cellular metabolism, affects the movement of water in the brain and reduces ischemic brain edema. Key words Temporary occlusion of the middle cerebral artery " Brain water content " T2 relaxation " Apparent Diffusion Coefficient " Methylprednisolone.