Frank’s Sign: A Clinical Predictor of Ischaemic Strokes

TL;DR

This study finds that a diagonal earlobe crease, known as Frank’s sign, is associated with ischaemic strokes and could help identify at-risk patients.

Contribution

The study demonstrates that Frank’s sign is a significant predictor of ischaemic stroke, even in patients without cardiovascular disease.

Findings

Frank’s sign was significantly associated with ischaemic strokes in a hospital-based study.

The association remained significant after excluding patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease.

Frank’s sign may help clinicians identify individuals at risk of stroke.

Abstract

Frank’s sign is a diagonal crease on the earlobe and has been linked to cardiovascular disease. This prospective observational study aimed to assess the association between Frank’s sign and ischaemic strokes. Conducted over three months in a UK district general hospital, the study analysed data from 137 consecutive patients admitted to stroke and elderly care wards. Patient records included demographic and medical history data, and physical examinations identified the presence of Frank’s sign. Statistical analysis using the chi-squared test demonstrated a significant association between ischaemic strokes and Frank’s sign, even after excluding patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. These findings suggest Frank’s sign could serve as a clinical predictor for ischaemic stroke. Recognizing this sign may help healthcare providers identify at-risk individuals and implement preventative strategies for managing stroke risk factors. Further research is needed to explore additional causes and refine its predictive value.

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