Hepatorenal and Full Blood Count Profiles of Stroke Survivors Compared With Controls: A Case–Control Study

ABSTRACT Stroke is not merely a cerebrovascular event but a systemic disorder with multi‐organ implications, including the liver and kidneys. Despite this growing body of knowledge, significant gaps persist. Most studies characterizing poststroke renal, hepatic, and hematological profiles originate from high‐income settings, with limited data from sub‐Saharan African populations who face distinct genetic, environmental, and healthcare access challenges. A case–control study was conducted at the Tamale Teaching Hospital between March and September 2025. The study involved 69 participants, aged 31–78 years, of whom 20 (29.0%) were stroke survivors (cases). Of the 69 participants, 39 (56.5%) were female. A single venous blood sample was collected and analyzed for full blood count, liver and renal function variables. Bivariate analysis revealed no significant differences in liver and renal function; however, the mean cell volume (MCV [fL]), the red cell distribution width (RDW‐CV [%]), eosinophils (%), and plateletcrit (PCT [%]) were lower, whereas the mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC [g/dL]) was higher in the stroke group. After adjusting for confounders, including body mass index (BMI) and occupation, the indirect bilirubin level was 0.143 mmol/L higher in the stroke group. In addition, the MCHC was 0.398 g/dL higher, while the hematocrit (HCT), MCV, and RDW‐CV were lower in the stroke group by 0.206 (%), 0.121 (fL), and 0.514 (%), respectively. This study suggests that stroke survivors exhibit distinct hematological profiles, characterized by alterations in RBC morphology and possibly low‐grade hemolysis or altered bilirubin metabolism independent of major liver or renal dysfunction. These changes may reflect the persistent systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and erythropoietic adaptation following a stroke.