The Berlin 'Cream&Sugar' Study: the prognostic impact of an oral triglyceride tolerance test in patients after acute ischaemic stroke.

RATIONALE

Stratification according to risk factors is crucial for secondary prevention after acute ischaemic stroke. Nonfasting triglyceride levels seem to be associated with stroke in the general population. However, the exact role of triglyceride levels for the risk of recurrent stroke is unknown.

HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesise that the results of a standardised oral triglyceride tolerance test in the subacute setting (3-7 days) after the first ischaemic stroke are associated with the risk of recurrent stroke within 12 months after the index event.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study. STUDY OUTCOME(S): The primary end-point of the study is recurrent fatal or nonfatal stroke within 12 months. The secondary outcomes are myocardial infarction, coronary revascularisation, cardiovascular death (death due to any cardiovascular or cerebrovascular event), or a transient ischaemic attack within 12 months after the qualifying event.

DISCUSSION

The study has the potential to change clinical practice. It will show whether the oral triglyceride tolerance test in the subacute setting is a useful tool to predict the risk of recurrent stroke.