To study plasma D-dimer levels in acute ischemic stroke and their correlation with the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale

Objectives The purpose of this study was to determine serum D-Dimer levels in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and their correlation with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). Material and Methods This prospective observational case-control study was conducted on 200 patients with AIS. In this study, 200 healthy age-matched and sex-matched individuals were taken as controls. Detailed history of the patient and control groups was recorded, and they underwent examination and D-Dimer level assessment. Neurologic examination using the NIHSS was conducted at admission and on discharge after treatment. Serum D-dimer level was evaluated within the first 24 hours of admission. Results Most subjects in our study were in the age range of 40-83 years, with more males (57%) than females (43%). The incidence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, smoking, and alcoholism was more in the cases than controls. Mean D-Dimer was higher in the patients with AIS (1042.9±624.75 ng/mL) as compared to the control group (250±113.96 ng/mL) (p=0.0001). Moreover, there was statistically significant, positive correlation between D-Dimer and NIHSS score at admission. The D-Dimer value was significantly high in patients who deteriorated (1556.25±614.30 ng/mL), comparatively low in patients who improved (911.71±561.56 ng/mL), and remained static (1098.67±659.35 ng/mL). Conclusion Plasma D-Dimer levels were significantly higher in patients with AIS than in controls. D-Dimer levels increased with increasing severity of stroke.