Predictive value of C - reactive protein and Carotid Intimal Medial Thickness in acute ischemic stroke

Abstract

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION S troke is a global epidemic and a major public health-care concern, it is usually associated with a detrimental impact on survival and quality of life of the patient, and a high economic cost. Worldwide, stroke is the second most common cause of mortality and the third most common cause of disability, the global burden of stroke-related disability is high and increasing. While the incidence of stroke is decreasing in high-income countries, the incidence is increasing in low-income countries (Shrivastava et al., 2013). Official national statistics indicate that diseases of the circulatory system, including stroke, are the primary cause of death in Egypt and account for one third of all deaths. Stroke accounts for 6.4% of all deaths and thus ranks 3rd after heart disease and gastrointestinal (especially liver) diseases. Deaths attributable to stroke have remained relatively unchanged during the past 10 years (CAPMAS, 2013). Risk factors for ischemic stroke include modifiable and non-modifiable conditions. Identification of risk factors in each patient can uncover clues to the cause of the stroke and the most appropriate treatment and secondary prevention plan (Sacco et al., 1997).