Endothelial progenitor cells during cerebrovascular disease.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are associated with endothelial repair after ischemia in cardiac or peripheral circulation. There are no reports of EPCs with cerebrovascular disease. We present our experience with EPCs in patients with cerebrovascular disease.

SUMMARY OF REPORT: EPC counts differed significantly (P<0.001) between stroke patients (acute stroke: median 4.75 and range 0 to 33; stable stroke: median 7.25 and range 0 to 43) and control subjects (median 15.5 and range 4.3 to 50), independent of age. The level of EPCs was significantly correlated with the Framingham coronary risk score (FCRS) (rho=-0.349; P=0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Similar to cardiac experience, the low EPC levels may play a role in the pathophysiology of cerebrovascular disease.