Abstract: ObjectiveTo investigate the difference of blood pressure variability among patients with lacunar infarction,nonlacunar infarction and normotension.MethodsBlood pressure was measured serially at 1-hour intervals during the first 24 hours after infarction with ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in 31 patients(17 cases with nonlacunar infarction and 14 cases with lacunar infarction).The blood pressure variability index were compared.ResultsBoth 24 h and day systolic blood pressure variability were significantly higher in lacunar infarction patients compared with nonlacunar infarction ones.ConclusionFluctuation of systolic blood pressure may disturb small arteries rather than large or middle arteries.

Key words: lacunar infarction, ambulatory blood pressure, variability