Role of Serum D Dimer Levels in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Abstract

Background: Acute ischemic stroke has been known to be a severely debilitating affliction with a steep disability and co morbidity curve. Various tools and methods have been attempted to ascertain if the diagnosis and prognosis of stroke can be achieved faster as it aids in effective management as well as reduces the resultant damage to the brain. Aim: The present study was designed to assess if serum D Dimer levels can be used as a marker as well as a volumetric determinant of stroke. Methods: The study involved a patient pool of 50 patients and corresponding controls who were matched for age and gender. The data collected included demographic data, baseline clinical parameters, serum D Dimer levels and a radiological assessment of the volume of infract. Findings: The study revealed that a relationship exists between the levels of circulating D Dimer and DW MRI weighted images showing infarcts. The relationship was direct in nature. Conclusion: D Dimer levels can provide a estimate of the area under infarction and thus prove to be a prognostic as well as diagnostic marker.
 Keywords: Acute ischaemic Stroke, D Dimer, Volumetric Association