Biomarkers of ischemic stroke: current status

Abstract

Many patient with acute stroke are not assessed by a stroke specialist. For those assessed in hospital, interpretation of brain imaging appearance can be difficult, as computerized tomography is often normal after early onset of ischemia and may remain normal in patients with mild ischemic stroke. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may not be feasible in acutely ill patients because they have a contraindication to MRI, or MRI may not be immediately available. A number of blood biomarkers of ischemic stroke have been identified and show promise to aid in ischemic stroke. Many relate to the underlying pathophysiology of ischemic stroke, including ischemic of central nervous system tissue, acute thrombosis and inflammatory response. Though many candidate biomarkers have been identified, none are currently used in clinical practice