Stroke mortality could be cut by tackling brain swelling

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

New research suggests a possible solution to the brain swelling which is a leading cause of death after a stroke.
Swelling of the brain is a common complication after a stroke and is, indeed, a leading cause of death. For the accumulation of fluid that swells the brain causes death of surrounding tissue and extensive damage. Now researchers at the University of Adelaide report on a potential way of tackling the brain swelling problem.

They say that brain swelling after stroke resembles a process that happens in skin, which is mediated by a compound known as substance P. Therefore, blocking substance P might be a useful way of tackling brain swelling. It is known to work for skin swelling. The researchers have now discovered that substance P is released after a stroke. And blocking it does reduce brain swelling and improves survival and outcome in rats. The findings suggest that drugs may be discovered that could reduce brain swelling in people who have had a stroke and so improve their survival prospects.

Source
University of Adelaide 21st August 2006

Please take a moment to give us your comments. For questions about Health matters you may check our "Questions & Answers" Portal and Service.