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Ascorbate status and fibrinogen concentrations after cerebrovascular accident
Journal of Clinical Pathology
|February 1, 1982
Summary
Acute cerebrovascular accidents significantly deplete leucocyte and serum ascorbate levels, persisting for weeks. This stress response also affects pituitary and adrenal ascorbate, impacting vascular health.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Ascorbate (vitamin C) plays crucial roles in cellular function and stress response.
- Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) represent a significant physiological stressor.
- The impact of CVAs on ascorbate levels and related endocrine functions requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the changes in leucocyte ascorbate (LA) and serum ascorbate (SA) following acute cerebrovascular accidents.
- To examine the relationship between CVAs, stress markers (serum cortisol), and ascorbate levels in pituitary and adrenal glands.
- To assess alterations in serum fibrinogen concentrations post-CVA.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of LA and SA in patients with acute CVAs.
- Post-mortem examination of pituitary and adrenal glands for ascorbate content.
- Assay of serum cortisol and serum fibrinogen concentrations.
Main Results:
- A significant and sustained decrease in LA and SA was observed within 24 hours of CVA onset, lasting several weeks.
- Elevated serum cortisol concentrations indicated a stress response.
- Post-mortem analysis revealed ascorbate depletion in pituitary and adrenal glands.
- Increased serum fibrinogen concentrations were noted.
Conclusions:
- Acute cerebrovascular accidents induce a significant and prolonged depletion of ascorbate in both leukocytes and serum.
- The physiological stress associated with CVAs impacts ascorbate levels in endocrine glands.
- Further research is needed to clarify the role of ascorbate in pituitary and adrenal function and its relationship to vascular disorders.