Correlation of platelet indices with severity and clinical outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke

Aim and Objectives: To study an association of platelet indices in acute ischemic stroke and compare them with age- and gender-matched controls, to find predictive value of platelet indices in acute ischemic stroke and association of platelet indices for in hospital mortality and morbidity by national institute of health stroke scale (NIHSS) and clinical outcome by modified Rankin score and to study the correlation of MPV with established (Traditional) risk factors for acute ischemic stroke. Method: 100 consecutive cases of acute ischemic stroke and equal number of age and gender match healthy controls were enrolled in study. Blood sample was collected at time of admission from cases and control for laboratory investigations. Modified Rankin score, ECG, BMI and NIHSS scale score of every patient carried out at time of admission, also modified Rankin score was calculated on day 7 or discharge. Results: Cases and controls ranged from 55 to 65 years of age with males (55%) outnumbering females (45%) in both groups. Incidence of hypertension, diabetes, alcohol, obesity, dyslipidaemiaas well as mean MPV, PDW, P-lcr and platelet count were more in cases than controls. Platelet indices increased in severe stroke, amongst MPV and platelet count increase was statistically significant. 25% mortality observed in studied cases. MPV and platelet count were increased in death and dependent cases compared to discharge and independent cases while PDW and P-lcr had positive correlation. Acute ischemic stroke associate hyponitremia had higher mortality. Platelet counts increases mortality in positive relation. Conclusion: Platelet indices can be used as positive predictor for acute ischemic stroke. Mean platelet volume can be used as a prognostic indicator and high mean platelet volume is well correlated with severity and outcome of acute ischemic stroke at the time of admission itself.