Related Experiment Videos
Fibrinogen levels and obstructive sleep apnea in ischemic stroke
T E Wessendorf1, A F Thilmann, Y M Wang
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ruhrlandklinik, University of Essen, Germany. TE_MC_Wessendorf@compuserve.com
American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine
|December 9, 2000
Summary
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to higher fibrinogen levels in stroke patients. This suggests OSA may increase stroke risk through elevated fibrinogen, impacting vascular events.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Plasma fibrinogen is an independent risk factor for vascular events.
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is prevalent in stroke patients and may also be an independent risk factor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and plasma fibrinogen levels in patients who have experienced a stroke.
Main Methods:
- Polysomnography was conducted on 113 ischemic stroke patients during neurological rehabilitation.
- Respiratory disturbance index (RDI) and oxygen indices were correlated with morning plasma fibrinogen levels.
- Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify predictors of fibrinogen levels.
Main Results:
- Fibrinogen levels positively correlated with OSA severity (RDI) and apnea duration.
- Fibrinogen negatively correlated with oxygen saturation indices.
- Minimal mean oxygen saturation and sex were independent predictors of fibrinogen levels.
Conclusions:
- The severity of OSA in stroke patients is associated with elevated plasma fibrinogen.
- This correlation suggests a potential pathophysiological link between OSA and increased stroke risk.