Genetics of primary intracerebral hemorrhage.
Genetic studies of primary intracerebral hemorrhage (PICH) have begun to yield important biologic insights into the pathogenesis of this disorder. This review of candidate genes for PICH emphasizes the value of focusing on individual pathogenic phenotypes. One type of PICH in particular, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, is known to have specific genetic factors regulating both its familial and sporadic forms. Another promising research method is to focus on pathways involved in hemostasis that may be etiologically relevant to all types of PICH. Genetic studies will improve our understanding of the biology of PICH, and may eventually be incorporated into clinical decision making regarding anticoagulation.
Greenberg
Steven M
SM
Neurology Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA. greenberg@helix.mgh.harvard.edu