Renal dysfunction as a predictor of acute stroke outcomes

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Neurology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Renal dysfunction, indicated by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), is a common comorbidity.
• The impact of reduced kidney function on acute stroke outcomes requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if impaired renal function, defined by eGFR, is associated with stroke severity, disability, and mortality.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 727 adult acute stroke patients (2012-2015).
• Patients categorized into normal (eGFR >60) and low (eGFR ≤60) groups using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation.
• Outcomes assessed included mortality, disability (mRS, NIHSS), and complications.

Main Results:

• 18% of patients had low eGFR. The low eGFR group had higher rates of urinary tract infections (OR=2.047).
• Patients with low eGFR exhibited significantly increased in-hospital mortality (OR=3.772).
• Low eGFR was associated with greater stroke-related disability, evidenced by higher mRS and NIHSS scores (p=0.010, p=0.011).

Conclusions:

• Reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate is a significant predictor of adverse stroke outcomes.
• Impaired kidney function is associated with increased stroke severity, disability, and mortality.
• eGFR should be considered in the risk stratification and management of acute stroke patients.