NCT00009243 · National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Natural History of Stroke: Cause and Development
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to learn more about stroke and obtain information that may serve as the basis for future investigations.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to learn more about stroke and obtain information that may serve as the basis for future investigations. It will 1) establish a registry of patients with cerebrovascular disease (stroke); 2) characterize the natural history of acute stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIA)-an interruption of blood flow to the brain that causes stroke symptoms for a short period of time); and 3) evaluate the data to generate ideas for future studies. Patients 18 years of age or older with suspected acute stroke or TIA may be eligible for this study. Subjects will be recruited from patients who present with stroke at the emergency department of Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland. The study will gather data collected from diagnostic and laboratory tests the patient undergoes as part of standard medical care, including findings of medical and neurological examinations and other tests. In addition, studies will be done for research purposes only to gather data about stroke and TIA. These may include the following: * Blood and urine tests not more than 2 tablespoons of blood will be drawn for various tests. * Electrocardiogram (EKG) (heart tracing)-electrodes placed on the chest wall detect the heartbeat and heart rhythm. * Computed tomography (CT) scan of the head-specialized X-rays are used to obtain images of the brain. * Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain-a strong magnetic field and radio waves are used to produce images that provide information about the brain tissue and blood vessels. * Transcranial Doppler (TCD)-sound waves are used to image the arteries of the brain and neck. * Echocardiogram-sound waves are used to image the heart and evaluate heart function.
Primary outcome measures
Prevalence and type of abnormalities seen on neuroimaging as a function of time from acute insult
Time frame: Post-acute, 24 hours, 5 days/discharge, 30 days
Neuroimaging abnormalities, such as:-Imaging positive for acute ischemic cerebral vascular syndrome ( AICS positive )-Presence of a lesion on diffusion, perfusion, and mismatch between the two-Evidence of a vascular occlusion on MR angiography-Evidence of a thrombus or hemorrhage on T2\* GRE imaging-Blood-brain barrier disruption as evidence by "HARM"-The evolution of these markers with time and treatment
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Presented to participating study site (ED, ICU, or inpatient unit) with or at risk of acute stroke, TIA, or other disturbances of cerebrovascular circulation
Exclusion criteria
- An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study:
- Subjects with contraindication to MRI scanning will be excluded from any testing which involves the use of MRI. The contraindications include subjects with the following devices or conditions:
- Central nervous system aneurysm clips
- Implanted neural stimulator
- Implanted cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator
- Cochlear implant
- Ocular foreign body (e.g. metal shavings)
- Insulin pump
- Metal shrapnel or bullet
- Any implanted device that is incompatible with MRI Subjects with a condition precluding entry in the scanner (e.g. morbid obesity, Claustrophobia, etc.) will not be included in the MRI portion of this study.
Where
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
- Bethesda, Maryland
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations