Hyperhomocysteine in stroke patients

Abstract

Homocysteine, an amino acid, has atherogenic and prothombotic properties by inducing vascular injury via serveral mechanisms. High homocysteine levels were found in ischemic stroke patients and was associated with early death in the acute period, but not in the outcome of stroke patients. Hyperthomocysteinemia is associated with large vessels stroke subtype and may be a risk factor of stroke. Vitamin therapy especially vitamin B12 and folate may reduce the risk of recurrent stroke