Role of Serum HsCRP in Predicting Outcome after One Week in Ischemic Stroke Patients

Abstract Introduction: A stroke is a medical condition in which poor blood flow to the brain results in cell death. There are two main types of strokes: Ischemic and hemorrhagic. Both results in parts of the brain not functioning properly. CRP is not only a sensitive marker of inflammation but also a novel plasma marker of atherosclerosis in disease. Ischemic brain injury is characterized by acute local inflammation and changes in levels of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, IL-2, IL-10, fibrinogen, ferritin and high sensitivity C reactive protein (hsCRP). Recent studies have shown hsCRP as a potential prognostic biomarker of ischemic stroke. Aims and objectives To Evaluate The Role Of Serum HsCRP Assay Within 24 Hours Of Stroke Onset As A Biomarker For Predicting Short Term Outcome (Modified Rankin Score And Barthel Index) After 1 Week In Kashmiri Population. Materials and Methods The present prospective observational study was conducted on 102 in the postgraduate Department of Medicine, Government S.M.H.S. Hospital, an associated hospital of Government Medical College, Srinagar. After obtaining the ethical clearance from the Institutional Ethical Committee, patients fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the study after obtaining the proper informed consent in local language. The study was conducted over a period of two years. Serum hsCRP levels were assessed at admission and its levels were compared with Barthel index and modified Rankin score after one week. Conclusion All ischemic stroke patient had increased high sensitive CRP levels. High levels of hsCRP were directly correlated with high MRS score. Hence directly related to poor outcome of ischemic stroke in the form of increased disability and increased mortality after one week (r=0.651; p <0.001) and High levels of hsCRP were inversely correlated with Barthel index. Hence high levels of serum hsCRP related to poor outcome of ischemic stroke in the form of increased disability and increased mortality both after one week (r=-0.756; p <0.001).