This article illustrates the use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the risk assessment of carotid atherosclerotic lesions, especially in challenging plaques evaluation. Materials and methods: For 23 patients with difficult duplex ultrasound examination due to carotid tortuosity or calcifications we assessed plaque morphology (contour, echogenicity and stenosis degree) using contrast substance (Sonovue, Braco) with dedicated vascular low mechanical index CPC software. Conclusion: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound is a new, noninvasive, and safe procedure for imaging carotid atherosclerotic lesions. It is a valuable tool for evaluating the vulnerable plaque at risk for rupture and for the diagnostic of the development and severity of systemic atherosclerotic disease.

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To assess the impact of stroke on patient's health related quality of life (HRQOL) using EQ-5D. METHODS: A convenient sample of 300 patients were recruited from six medical centers across three cities (Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi) in India. Patients older than 18 years diagnosed with stroke between June 2011 to June 2012 who were receiving therapy for stroke were included in the study. Data on patients' socio-demographics, diagnosis, relevant clinical complications, were collected using a paper-based case report form. Patients were asked to rate their overall health using the EQ-VAS scale and data on the five dimensions of quality of life was collected using the EQ-5D questionnaire that was administered by trained interviewers. Translated and validated versions of the EQ-5D and EQ-VAS scales for five Indian languages were used in the study. RESULTS: The mean age of patients in the study was 58 (SD 14.45) and majority (70%) of the patients were males. Of the 300 patients, 60% had ischemic stroke. The mean EQ-VAS score was 66 (SD 23.09). Age and socioeconomic status were significant predictors (p<0.05, p<0.001 respectively) of EQ-VAS score. However, these variables were negatively correlated with the EQ-VAS score indicating that patients who were older and from an upper socioeconomic strata rated their overall health to be lower. Additionally, the frequency of problems was higher among older patients on mobility and usual care domains of the EQ-5D scale than younger patients. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest the value of measuring health status among stroke patients in addition to assessing clinical symptoms as it enables comprehensive evaluation of a patient's health condition.