Background and PurposeControversy continues to exist regarding optimal blood pressure control in acute hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage. Persistent marked elevation of the blood pressure can promote further bleeding, increase cerebral blood flow, and raise intracranial pressure. Relative hypotension, on the other hand, may promote hypoperfusion with secondary ischemia. This study was designed to assess outcome in patient groups defined by the degree of elevation in their pretreatment and posttreatment blood pressures.Methods125 mm Hg (n = 40) or less than or equal to 125 mm Hg (n = 47).ResultsAn improved outcome in both mortality and severe morbidity was observed in the less than or equal to 145 (chi2= 7.0, P < .005) and the <125 mm Hg (chi2= 6.7, P < .005) groups.ConclusionsMarkedly elevated blood pressure on admission and persistent inadequate blood pressure control adversely affect the prognosis in hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage.(Stroke. 1995;26:21-24.)