Abstract
Objective : Stroke is the second major cause of death in Korea. It is known that the survival and ultimate outcome in stroke depend on various factors, so it is not easy to predict unexpected death in stroke. This study was performed in order to find predicting factors of unexpected death in stroke. Methods : A retrospective study was accomplished by reviewing 21 medical records of stroke patients who expired in the ward of Kyung Hee Oriental Medical Center from January 1998 to December 2001. Data analyzed Were physical examination, laboratory findings, clinical charts and APACH III scoring system. Results : I. The number of unexpected deaths at the ward of Kyung Hee Oriental Medical Center from January in 1998 to December in 2001 were 21 patients (0.1%). 2. Major risk factors of unexpected death were age (${\geq}60$), high blood pressure on 1st admission day and acute stage (${\leq}30{\;}days$). 3. The most frequent time of unexpected death was from 6 a.m. to noon. 4. Major cause of unexpected death was recurrence of stroke (40%). 5. APACH III scores of 75% of unexpected death patients were over 30 points. 6. Clinical change of symptoms 3 or 4 days before the unexpected death were dyspnea, change of urination and defecation. Conclusion; This mortality study suggests that old age, high blood pressure on 1st admission day, acute stage, and high APACH III score are the major predictors of unexpected death in stroke patients and that intensive medical attention is necessary to reach a better outcome.
