Patterns of computed tomography imaging findings in patients diagnosed with cerebrovascular accident in Nigeria: a single center study

Abstract

Background: Stroke is a major challenge to physicians worldwide, with high incidence, mortality, disability rates, and costs.  This study was designed to evaluate the patterns of computed tomography imaging findings in patients diagnosed with cerebrovascular accident in Nigeria. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study design was adopted to select 320 patients with stroke who underwent CT imaging at a radiological facility in Ibadan, Nigeria. Data such as CT imaging findings in CVA, age and gender of the patients were collected from the CT radiological reports archive for cases done from January 2023 to October 2023. Results: Males were highest 208(65%) and the majority 104(32%) were within the age group of 60-69years. Based on CT findings, the majority 180(56.3%) was haemorrhage and the least 20 (6.3%) was transient ischemic attack. Out of 120 cases of infarcts, 27 (22.5%) were female and males were 110 (61.1%) out of 180 cases of haemorrhagic CVA. Conclusion:  Male preponderance was noted in this study. Older adults were commonly affected and haemorrhagic CVA was the commonest CT imaging finding. Improving access to health care for males, and increasing screening and early detection of CVA, could also help to reduce the gender disparity.