July 23, 2004 - Researchers at Jobst Vascular Center Document Differences in the Diagnoses of Carotid Disease (Cerebrovascular Disease) in Women Compared to Men

At the most recent national vascular society meeting, Dr. Anthony J. Comerota, MD, Director of Jobst Vascular Center, presented the ten-year review of ultrasound diagnosis of carotid artery disease (disease in the arteries supplying blood flow to the brain that frequently are the cause of ischemic strokes). In a review of over 1,000 blood vessels, it was shown that the diagnostic criterion for women is different than for men. This is the first such observation of its kind and may potentially alter the care of patients.

Ultrasound is the most commonly used diagnostic test to identify patients with disease in their carotid arteries (neck arteries), which is a frequent cause of stroke. If the disease can be identified and corrected, stroke can be avoided in a number of patients.

The information presented demonstrates that the velocity of blood flow is higher in the carotid arteries in women compared to men. The velocity changes represent the basis upon which the diagnosis is made. Many physicians will recommend operation or arteriography on the basis of these velocity criteria. These observations refine the diagnostic criteria and have major implications for care in future patients, especially women.