Haematological Parameters of Acute Stroke Patients Managed at a Tertiary Hospital in Abakaliki Nigeria: A Case-Control Study Haematological Parameters of Acute Stroke Patients

Abstract

Background: Changes in the haematological indices could have implications for stroke risk, management plan and outcome. There is limited data on the pattern of haematological parameters of acute stroke patients in Nigeria despite its impact on stroke risk, management and outcome. Objectives: To determine the pattern and the prognostic implications of the haematological parameters in acute stroke patients managed over a-nine-year-period at a Tertiary Hospital in Abakaliki Nigeria. Methodology: This was a retrospective hospital-based case-control study of the haematological parameters of acute stroke patients seen over a nine-year-period at a tertiary hospital in Abakaliki Nigeria. Results: The mean total white blood cell count and percentage neutrophil in the case group were significantly higher than the control group while the mean packed cell volume did not show any significant difference. Further analysis of the case group revealed that the mean packed cell volume was significantly lower among female patients, the elderly age group, those with low education attainment, impaired renal status, short admission duration, haemorrhagic stroke and admitting hypertension. Conclusions: Elevated total white blood cell count and differential neutrophilia were significantly associated with acute stroke. Changes in haematological parameters have implications for stroke risk and outcome.