Intermediate
Technical
IVT
ASPECT score
Pronunciation: AS-pekt
Also written as: ASPECTS — Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score
A 10-point scoring system for assessing early ischemic changes on non-contrast CT in acute stroke.
Full Definition
The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score is a systematic method for quantifying early ischemic changes in the middle cerebral artery territory on non-contrast CT scans. The score ranges from 0-10, with 1 point subtracted for each region showing early ischemic changes. Scores ≥6 generally indicate candidacy for endovascular therapy, while lower scores suggest large established infarcts with poor prognosis.
Usage
Usage note: ASPECTS is the preferred acronym; specify imaging modality (CT-ASPECTS vs DWI-ASPECTS)
In Context
- "The admission CT showed an ASPECT score of 8, supporting endovascular intervention." — Stroke alert documentation
- "Low ASPECT score of 4 indicated extensive early ischemic changes." — Radiology interpretation
Also known as
ASPECTS
Alberta stroke score
Don't confuse with
NIHSS
mRS score
DWI-ASPECTS