Assessment of Hemodynamic Compromise Using Computed Tomography Perfusion in Combination with (123)I-IMP Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography without Acetazolamide Challenge Test.

OBJECTIVES: The acetazolamide challenge test in conjunction with (123)I-IMP single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is a known method of assessing cerebrovascular reserve capacity. In this study, we investigated whether CT perfusion in combination with resting state (123)I-IMP SPECT could be used instead of the acetazolamide challenge test to evaluate hemodynamic compromise in patients with atherosclerotic occlusive disease.

METHODS: Twenty consecutive patients with unilateral internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery steno-occlusive disease were enrolled. (123)I-IMP SPECT was performed with and without the acetazolamide challenge test, and with CT perfusion. Cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral blood volume, and mean transit time (MTT) obtained by CT perfusion were compared with CBF and cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) obtained by (123)I-IMP SPECT.

RESULTS: The asymmetry ratio of MTT as measured by CT perfusion showed a strong correlation with the CVR to acetazolamide as measured by (123)I-IMP SPECT (ρ = -.780, P <.001). Based on the CBF obtained through (123)I-IMP SPECT and the MTT obtained through CT perfusion, hemodynamic compromise was detected with high sensitivity (1.000) and specificity (.929), and a cutoff value of 30% was found to be suitable for the asymmetry ratio of MTT. MTT prolongation was significantly improved after revascularization surgery in hemodynamic compromise (P = .028).

CONCLUSION: MTT as measured by CT perfusion in combination with CBF as measured by resting state (123)I-IMP SPECT may be useful for evaluating hemodynamic compromise as an alternative to the acetazolamide challenge test.