Volumetric Infarct Size Predicts Secondary Haemorrhagic Transformation of Ischaemic Stroke

The results support the association between greater infarct size and an increased risk of secondary haemorrhagic transformation both after systemic thrombolysis with rt-PA and in non-treated stroke patients. We hypothesize that risk factor reduction may be beneficial not only for the prevention of ischaemic stroke but also for the prevention of secondary haemorrhagic transformation. Pragmatically, the radiological assessment of infarct volume appears as a relevant prognostic factor.