Diagnostic and prognostic role of resistin and copeptin in acute ischemic stroke

Our aim was to evaluate (i) whether there is a difference in the concentration of resistin and copeptin between acute ischemic stroke patients and stroke-free controls; and (ii) if there is any prognostic value of resistin and copeptin in predicting stroke infarct volume, stroke severity, and outcome.

Our case-control study has recruited 112 acute ischemic stroke patients admitted within 24 h after the stroke onset. We have also included 63 age and gender matched stroke-free controls. Resistin and copeptin levels were measured by a commercial ELISA kits. Stroke severity was assessed according to the modified National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (mNIHSS) and the degree of disability was assessed using Barthel index (BI). Stroke infarct volume was determined by the volumetric estimation.

Resistin concentrations were significantly higher in patients (3.2 mg/L; IQR: 1.9-6.4) than in stroke-free controls (2.5 mg/L; IQR: 1.4-5.2; p = 0.024) whereas the concentration of copeptin did not differ between patients and controls. Copeptin concentrations were significantly higher in patients with poor functional outcome (Barthel index <60) (p = 0.021). There was a significant negative correlation between copeptin and BI score (ρ = -0.309, p = 0.020).

Resistin, but not copeptin levels are higher in acute ischemic stroke patients early after the stroke onset, than in age and gender matched stroke-free controls. Moreover, higher copeptin concentrations are predictive of poor short term functional outcome after ischemic stroke. If confirmed in larger prospective studies, resistin and copeptin could improve clinical diagnosis of stroke and effective management of patient recovery.