In a case series study that explored the association of COVID-19 and acute ischemic stroke, researchers at Emory University Hospital observed higher than expected rates of unexplained or "cryptogenic" strokes, as well as delays in stroke presentations or symptom recognition. Results were published online Sept. 18 in PLOS ONE.

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Ischemic stroke, caused by a clot that blocks blood flow to the brain, is the most common form of acute stroke. But in some instances, despite looking for causes of these strokesby a thorough cardiac evaluation (heart conditions are one of the most common causes); by looking at blood vessels supplying the brain or by testing for increased blood clotting conditionsthe cause cannot be determined.

The study looked at COVID-19 patients with ischemic stroke from the Emory University Hospital system. Of 396 ischemic stroke patients admitted during the study period from March to July 2020, 13 were diagnosed with COVID-19. Researchers found the occurrence of stroke greater in COVID-19 patients who had risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia or atrial fibrillation/flutter. Males and African Americans were predominantly affected by strokes in the study.