Study challenges long-held assumptions about causes of lacunar stroke

Stroke breakthrough may explain why treatments fail as scientists uncover new possible cause

The body is an intricate system of tiny blood vessels no wider than a strand of hair that help deliver oxygen to the tissues, shaping thoughts, memories and movements. When these pathways fail, the consequences can be life-threatening.Now, scientists believe they may have uncovered a surprising cause behind one of the world's most feared conditions, which affects approximately 35,000 people across Britain each year.A research team at the Univers…

Cause of stroke affecting thousands in UK identified by researchers

Study challenges long-held assumptions about causes of lacunar stroke

Scientists have uncovered new evidence that challenges long-held assumptions about the causes of a common type of stroke, offering clues as to why widely used treatments may not work.

Artery widening, not blockages, linked to common stroke

Scientists have uncovered new evidence that challenges long-held assumptions about the causes of a common type of stroke, offering clues as to why widely used treatments may not work. The study found that the buildup of fatty deposits in arteries does not appear to cause lacunar ischemic stroke, which accounts for around a quarter of all ischemic strokes—strokes caused by a blocked blood vessel—in the UK each year.

Certain strokes likely caused by artery widening, not blockages, new MRI data show

Imaging findings could explain why treatments involving aspirin and other antiplatelet drugs are not effective in some stroke patients.