The predictive accuracy of satellite sign for hematoma expansion in intracerebral hemorrhage: A meta-analysis

Background and purpose: Satellite sign is a novel neuroimaging marker for predicting hematoma expansion (HE), which is closely related to unfavorable prognosis in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). However, the predictive value of satellite sign varied according to previous studies. Thus, we conduct this metaanalysis to systematically review the application value of satellite sign in related studies. Methods: We searched the literature in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from inception to April 10, 2020. Effect values, including sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratio were pooled to assess the diagnostic value of satellite sign for HE in patients with ICH. Results: The meta-analysis included five studies with a total of 1493 patients. Results showed that the pooled diagnostic sensitivity and specificity were 0.50 (95 % CI, 0.31-0.70) and 0.71 (95 % CI, 0.56-0.83), respectively. In addition, the pooled positive and negative likelihood ratios were 1.7 (95 % CI, 1.5-2.1) and 0.70 (95 % CI, 0.54-0.89), respectively. No significant publication bias was found. Conclusion: Satellite sign exhibited moderate sensitivity and specificity for predicting HE in patients with ICH. Further studies are needed to explore its value in clinical application.