Aspirin resistance in Chinese stroke patients increased the rate of recurrent stroke and other vascular events.

INTRODUCTION

To investigate the prevalent of aspirin resistance (AR) in Chinese stroke patients and its association with recurrent stroke and other vascular events, including cardiovascular disease and death.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 634 Chinese stroke patients. Aspirin was administrated to every patient from the first day of admission. Whole blood samples were collected for platelet aggregation testing after aspirin was administered for 7-10 days. A follow-up period of 12-24 months was performed to record vascular events and hemorrhagic side effects.

RESULTS

Aspirin resistance (AR) was detected in 129 patients (20·4%), aspirin semi-resistance (ASR) in 28 patients (4·4%) and aspirin sensitivity (AS) in 477 patients (75·2%). Logistic regression analysis found that diabetes and high levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) were independent risk factors for ASR and AR. During a median follow-up period of 19·4 months, the prevalence of recurrent stroke, death from all causes, myocardial infarction and vascular events overall were higher in patients with AR + ASR than in patients with AS. Cox regression analysis found that diabetes and AR were independent risk factors for vascular events.

CONCLUSION

Aspirin resistance is common in Chinese patient taking antiplatelet medications. Diabetes and high LDL may induce platelet activation and thrombosis and increase the occurrence of aspirin resistance. Patients who are detected to be aspirin resistant are at a greater risk of clinically important vascular events.