Clot Composition and Pre-Interventional Radiological Characterization for Better Prognosis and Potential Choice of Treatment in Acute Ischemic Strokes

Abstract

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) remains a critical concern in clinical practice, with significant implications for patient outcomes and healthcare costs. This review highlights the role of clot composition in AIS, emphasizing the clinical relevance of radiological characterization. Variations in thrombus composition, such as red blood cell (RBC)-rich and white blood cell (WBC)-dominant clots, influence the success of thrombolytic therapies and mechanical thrombectomy. Advanced radiological techniques, including non-contrast CT, CT angiography, and MRI, are essential for pre-interventional clot characterization, guiding optimal treatment decisions. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in radiology can enhance the precision of clot composition assessment, facilitating personalized treatment approaches and improving predictive accuracy. By combining histopathological insights with imaging and AI technologies, this review underscores the importance of comprehensive radiological evaluation in the management of AIS, ultimately aiming to enhance clinical outcomes and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.