Association of Admission Anaemia with the Severity of Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background: Acute ischemic stroke imposes substantial disability, economic, and social burdens. Prevention plays a vital role in reducing morbidity and mortality. Reduced hemoglobin concentration in ischemic stroke patients hampers oxygen delivery to neuronal tissue, leading to adverse effects on the ischemic penumbra and increasing the risk of infarct expansion. By addressing anemia and identifying other associated risk factors, we can effectively enhance stroke prevention strategies and mitigate its overall impact on individuals and society. Understanding the multifaceted nature of ischemic stroke and implementing comprehensive prevention measures is key to minimizing its devastating consequences. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to show the association of admission anaemia with the Severity of Acute Ischemic Stroke. Method and Materials: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Neurology, Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), Dhaka for a period of two years. Two hundred and seventy- nine patients with acute ischemic stroke were selected consecutively through screening with a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Each patient underwent a CT of the head and/or MRI of the brain and blood tests, including hemoglobin (Hb) concentration on the first day of hospitalization. Demographic and risk factors from all subjects were collected with a structured questionnaire. The neurological state of the patients was assessed on the first day of hospitalization by the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). After data collection analysis was done by SPSS for Windows version 26. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The frequency of anemia in acute ischemic stroke patients was 39.1%, in males it was 35.8%, and in females 44.7%. Frequency Anemia was observed more among the older patients than younger patients but there was no significant difference. Anemia was found highest in the age group ........