Renal function predicts survival in patients with acute ischemic stroke

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Neurology
• Cardiovascular Medicine

Background:

• Impaired kidney function is a known risk factor for mortality in acute ischemic stroke patients.
• The specific relationship between kidney function and mortality in this population requires further detailed investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the shape of the association between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and all-cause mortality in acute ischemic stroke patients.
• To identify specific eGFR ranges associated with increased mortality risk.

Main Methods:

• Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated for 1,175 acute ischemic stroke patients upon hospital admission.
• All-cause mortality was tracked over a median follow-up period of 40.3 months.
• Statistical analysis was performed to examine the shape of the eGFR-mortality relationship.

Main Results:

• A 'U'-shaped relationship was observed between eGFR and all-cause mortality.
• Mortality risk increased significantly at eGFR levels below 75 ml/min/1.73 m(2) and above 110 ml/min/1.73 m(2).
• The mortality curve was relatively stable for eGFR values between 75 and 110 ml/min/1.73 m(2).

Conclusions:

• Both reduced and highly elevated eGFR levels at hospital admission are associated with increased mortality in acute ischemic stroke patients.
• Moderate eGFR levels (75-110 ml/min/1.73 m(2)) are associated with the lowest mortality risk.
• These findings highlight the critical role of kidney function in stroke outcomes.