The impact of sex on epidemiology, management, and outcome of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH)

Abstract

Objective: Data on sex differences in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhages are limited.

Methods: An automated comprehensive scoping literature review was performed using PubMed and Scopus. Articles written in English about spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage and sex were reviewed.

Results: Males experience spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage more frequently than females, at younger ages, and have a higher prevalence of deep bleeds compared to females. Risk factors between sexes vary and may contribute to differing incidences and locations of spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage. Globally, females receive less aggressive care than males, likely impacting survival.

Conclusions: Epidemiology, risk factors, and treatment of spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage vary by sex, with limited and oftentimes conflicting data available. Further research into the sex-based differences of spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage is necessary for clinicians to better understand how to evaluate and guide treatment in the future.

Keywords: Intracranial hemorrhage; gender; intensive care; intracerebral hemorrhage; sex; stroke.