Can Lung Function Be Used as a Predictor of Cerebral Stroke?

Abstract objectives Limited studies have explored the specific relationship between pulmonary function, arterial blood gases, and cerebral stroke. This study aims to investigate the relationship between lung function and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) in cerebral stroke and non-stroke patients without chronic pulmonary disease. Methods A case control study included 125 cerebral stroke patients and 125 non-stroke controls selected from the outpatient clinics of the Neurology and Rheumatology & Rehabilitation departments at Zagazig University Hospital, Sharkia Governorate, Egypt. Lung function was assessed using the forced vital capacity (FVC) maneuver. Arterial blood gases were measured, and CIMT was evaluated using high-resolution ultrasonography by trained physicians. Results The results revealed a higher risk of cerebral stroke in patients with elevated CIMT compared to those with normal CIMT. An inverse relationship was observed between lung function, expressed as FVC, FEV1/FVC, and MVV, and arterial blood gases, expressed as PaO2, with CIMT. Reduced FVC, FEV1/FVC, MVV, and PaO2 were associated with elevated CIMT. The stepwise multivariable regression model showed that CIMT was directly related to age and FEV1 and inversely related to FVC, FEV1/FVC, PaO2, and MVV. Conclusion Patients with elevated CIMT have a higher risk of cerebral stroke. Reduced FVC, FEV1/FVC, MVV, and PaO2 are associated with elevated CIMT. These findings suggest that lung function tests could be useful in screening individuals without respiratory disease who are at high risk for cerebral stroke.