Plasma Brain Natriuretic Peptide as a Marker for Cardioembolic Stroke
Author Information
Author(s): Yukiiri Kazushi, Hosomi Naohisa, Naya Takayuki, Takahashi Tsutomu, Ohkita Hiroyuki, Mukai Mao, Masugata Hisashi, Murao Koji, Ueno Masaki, Nakamura Takehiro, Dobashi Hiroaki, Miki Takanori, Kuroda Yasuhiro, Kohno Masakazu
Primary Institution: Kagawa University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Can plasma brain natriuretic peptide levels help differentiate between cardioembolic and non-cardioembolic strokes?
Conclusion
Plasma brain natriuretic peptide can be a surrogate marker for cardioembolic stroke, strongly predicted by atrial fibrillation.
Supporting Evidence
- Plasma BNP was significantly higher in patients with cardioembolic stroke compared to non-cardioembolic stroke.
- Atrial fibrillation was found to be a strong predictor of cardioembolic stroke.
- Plasma BNP levels above 77 pg/ml were associated with a higher likelihood of cardioembolic stroke.
Takeaway
Doctors can use a blood test for a substance called BNP to help tell if a stroke is caused by a heart problem or not.
Methodology
The study evaluated plasma BNP levels in 131 acute ischemic stroke patients and assessed their ability to differentiate stroke subtypes.
Potential Biases
Hospital-based selection bias may exist due to the nature of patient admissions.
Limitations
The study had a limited sample size and was conducted in a single hospital, which may introduce selection bias.
Participant Demographics
Mean age of participants was 69.6 years, with 43 females and 88 males.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.0001
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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