In a nutshell
This trial examined whether elevated lipoprotein(a) levels result in an increased risk of recurrent ischemic stroke. The authors concluded that patients who have had one ischemic stroke and have high Lp(a) levels are at a greater risk of further vascular (blood vessel) events.
Some background
Stroke patients are commonly at a higher risk for further vascular disease, including recurrent stroke. Current screening methods aim to detect markers that are associated with a higher risk of recurrent stroke and further vascular disease. Elevated lipoprotein a (LP(a)) is a protein in the body which has been shown to be associated with first ischemic stroke (blocked blood flow to the brain). There is very little evidence however that outlines the relationship between Lp(a) levels and recurrent stroke and vascular disease in stroke patients.
Methods & findings
This trial aimed to determine whether there was an association between recurrent vascular disease and elevated Lp(a) levels in stroke patients. 250 patients were included. Patients provided blood samples after their first ischemic stroke then underwent a follow-up after 12 months. Of these patients, 37% had elevated Lp(a) levels at baseline.
Overall, 10% of patients had a secondary event, including recurrent stroke, TIA (temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain), heart attack, coronary bypass surgery or death.
For patients with normal Lpa levels, 7% experienced a secondary event at an average of 161 days after stroke. This is in comparison to 16% of patients with elevated Lp(a) levels who experienced secondary events at an average of 48 days after stroke. The risk of further disease after stroke was 2.6-fold greater in patients with higher Lp(a) levels.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that elevated Lp(a) levels were associated with a higher risk of disease recurrence in stroke patients.
Published By :
Stroke
Date :
Nov 17, 2016
