Assessing the Evolution of Intracranial Hematomas by using Animal Models: A Review of the Progress and the Challenges

Stroke has become the second leading cause of death in people aged higher than 60 years, with cancer being the first. Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the most lethal type of stroke. Using imaging techniques to evaluate the evolution of intracranial hematomas in patients with hemorrhagic stroke is worthy of ongoing research. The difficulty in obtaining ultra-early imaging data and conducting intensive dynamic radiographic imaging in actual clinical settings has led to the application of experimental animal models to assess the evolution of intracranial hematomas. Herein, we review the current knowledge on primary intracerebral hemorrhage mechanisms, focus on the progress of animal studies related to hematoma development and secondary brain injury, introduce preclinical therapies, and summarize related challenges and future directions.

Automated summary

Stroke is the second leading cause of death in people aged over 60, with cancer being the first. Intracerebral hemorrhage is the most lethal type of stroke. Research on evaluating the evolution of intracranial hematomas in patients with hemorrhagic stroke is ongoing, with experimental animal models being used due to difficulties in obtaining ultra-early imaging data in actual clinical settings.