ASPECTS
Also written as: ASPECTS — Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score
Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, a systematic method for evaluating early ischemic changes on CT scans in acute stroke patients.
Full Definition
ASPECTS (Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score) is a 10-point quantitative topographic scoring system used to assess early ischemic changes on non-contrast CT scans in patients with middle cerebral artery stroke. The scoring system divides the middle cerebral artery territory into 10 regions, with one point subtracted for each region showing early ischemic changes. A score of 7 or higher generally indicates better outcomes and may influence treatment decisions for endovascular therapy. ASPECTS has become a standard tool in acute stroke evaluation and is incorporated into major stroke treatment guidelines.
Usage
Usage note: Often misspelled as 'ASPECT score' - the correct form is ASPECTS. Should not be confused with other stroke scoring systems.
In Context
- "The patient's ASPECTS score of 8 supported proceeding with mechanical thrombectomy." — Emergency department note
- "ASPECTS evaluation revealed early ischemic changes in 3 of 10 regions." — Radiology report