RESULTS OF AUTOPSY ANALYSIS IN INDIVIDUALS UNDER 50 YEARS OF AGE WITH ACUTE CEREBROVASCULAR DISORDERS IN THE LVIV REGION

Abstract

An analysis of autopsy material from individuals under 50 years of age with acute cerebrovascular accidents in the Lviv region was conducted to identify etiological factors and mechanisms of pathology development. Cardiac pathology was the leading cause in 85% of cases. Autopsy findings confirmed atherosclerotic lesions of the abdominal aorta and coronary arteries, left ventricular hypertrophy, and evidence of post-infarction cardiosclerosis and nephrosclerosis. Men accounted for 67% of cases. Prolonged hospitalization (>21 bed-days) was observed in only 5% of patients, primarily due to severe comorbidities. Anamnestic data revealed hypertension or episodes of elevated blood pressure without a formal diagnosis in 87% of patients. The combination of arterial hypertension, hyperglycemia, and morbid obesity was present in 8% of cases. Isolated cases of comorbid pathology, association with known risk factors of the acute cerebrovascular circulation impairment (blood disease, corrected transposition of the major vessels, endocarditis, continious warfarin anticoagulant therapy, thrombotic conditions).
Mortality analysis showed that 55% of strokes were intracerebral or subarachnoid hemorrhages, with half resulting from ruptured cerebral aneurysms. The study demonstrated an age-dependent pattern: hemorrhagic events predominated in patients under 44 years, whereas cerebral infarction was more frequent in the 45–50 age group, associated with long-standing hypertensive disease. Considering the negative impact of psychological stress, post-traumatic stress disorder caused by the war in Ukraine, on the cerebrovascular health of young people is an important aspect of stroke prevention. Further research will contribute the development of diagnostic algorithms for risk stratification via treatment and preventive measures optimization.