HKUMed Launches TRICH Score: A Breakthrough Clinical Tool for Telemedicine in Post-Stroke Hypertension Management
Researchers at the University of Hong Kong’s LKS Faculty of Medicine have introduced the TRICH score, a novel clinical tool designed to enhance hypertension management in patients who have experienced an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). This scoring system assists healthcare providers in identifying ICH patients who might benefit from early intervention with triple anti-hypertensive medication, addressing a significant challenge in post-stroke care. The study detailing this development has been published in the journal Neurology.
Exploring Telemedicine in Hypertensive Management
Alongside the introduction of the TRICH score, the research team is examining the role of telemedicine in hypertensive management among ICH patients, aiming to further refine their treatment approach.
The Impact of ICH on Stroke Outcomes
ICH is recognized as the second most common type of stroke and accounts for 50% of stroke-related deaths in Asia, leading to substantial long-term disabilities. Effective management of post-ICH hypertension is essential for improving patient outcomes; however, achieving controlled blood pressure in these patients can be challenging due to a high incidence of severe hypertension. Research indicates that many ICH patients do not attain adequate blood pressure control, thereby increasing the risk of ICH recurrence and subsequent strokes. Although multiple anti-hypertensive medications are typically necessary, many patients receive insufficient treatment, with concerns about overtreatment and adverse effects frequently arising, especially in older individuals.
Development and Validation of the TRICH Score
The TRICH score was developed by undergraduate medical students under faculty supervision and has been validated through data from 462 ICH patients treated at Queen Mary Hospital across three local hospitals. The scoring system incorporates five clinical indicators: age, sex, kidney function, admission blood pressure, and the presence of ischemic heart disease. This streamlined approach enables healthcare providers to quickly identify patients requiring intensive treatment, allowing for timely management of blood pressure while reducing the risks associated with inappropriate treatment.
The Importance of Blood Pressure Management
Dr. Teo Kay-cheong from HKUMed highlighted the critical nature of effective blood pressure management following ICH, indicating that poorly controlled hypertension may increase the risk of further strokes by fourfold. Utilizing the TRICH score allows clinicians to implement rapid interventions with combination pill therapies, which could improve patient adherence to treatment.
Future Research: The MOBILE-ICH Study
The research team is also launching the MOBILE-ICH study to further investigate the potential of telemedicine in the management of hypertension among survivors of ICH.
Raising Awareness on World Hypertension Day
World Hypertension Day, observed on May 17, serves to underscore the vital need for awareness and proactive management of hypertension to mitigate stroke risk and improve patient outcomes.
(Source: University of Hong Kong)
