Cannabis use, ischemic stroke, and multifocal intracranial vasoconstriction: a prospective study in 48 consecutive young patients

Stroke. 2011 Jun;42(6):1778-80. doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.110.610915. Epub 2011 Apr 21.

Abstract

Background and purpose: Our objective was to evaluate the relationship between cannabis use and ischemic stroke in a young adult population.

Methods: Forty-eight consecutive young patients admitted for acute ischemic stroke participated in the study. First-line screening was performed, including blood tests, cardiovascular investigations, and urine analysis for cannabinoids. If no etiology was found, 3D rotational angiography and cerebrospinal fluid analysis were performed. A control was planned through neurovascular imaging within 3 to 6 months.

Results: In this series, there was multifocal intracranial stenosis associated with cannabis use in 21% (n=10).

Conclusions: Multifocal angiopathy associated with cannabis consumption could be an important cause of ischemic stroke in young people.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Blood Vessels / drug effects
  • Blood Vessels / pathology
  • Brain Ischemia / etiology*
  • Cannabis / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prospective Studies
  • Stroke / etiology*
  • Vasoconstriction / drug effects*