Strokes in the Oldest Old - Risk Factors, Aetiology and Outcomes of Strokes in Very Old Persons

BACKGROUND: The population of very old persons (aged > 85 years) is at significantly increased risk of stroke, with incidence rising due to increased life expectancy. However, clinical data on stroke characteristics and outcomes in this age group remain limited. OBJECTIVE: To characterize the risk factors, stroke etiology, and clinical outcomes among patients aged over 85 years who experienced a stroke. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of patients aged >85 years who presented with stroke between January 2009 and December 2019. Clinical risk factors and comorbidities were documented. Neuroimaging, cardiac, and vascular investigations were assessed, and stroke etiology was classified using the TOAST criteria. A modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 85 years, of whom 62 had ischemic strokes. The most common etiology was cardioembolic stroke. One patient received intravenous thrombolysis. In-hospital mortality occurred in seven patients. A favorable outcome (mRS