Plasma Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor are Associated with Prognosis in the Acute Phase of Ischemic Stroke.

CONTEXT: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin involved in neuronal survival, differentiation, and maturation.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the levels of BDNF in the acute phase of stroke and their potential association with neurological impairment.

METHODS

Patients in the acute phase of ischemic stroke were evaluated with the following clinical tools: National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, modified Rankin scale, Gugging Swallowing Screen and Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score. Blood samples were collected at 3 different moments of hospital stay. BDNF was measured through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Patients who were discharged after 10 days had worse clinical outcomes and higher levels of BDNF since admission. There was correlation between BDNF levels and clinical parameters.

CONCLUSION

BDNF levels were associated with clinical prognosis in the acute phase of ischemic stroke.