Serum macrophage migration inhibitory factor levels are associated with infarct volumes and long-term outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

PURPOSE

Previous studies have shown that macrophage migration inhibition factor (MIF) plays a significant role in stroke. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of the serum MIF level with both infarct volume and long-term outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

METHODS

This study included 146 patients who were identified within 24 h of first experiencing AIS symptoms. Serum MIF levels were tested at the time of admission and three months later. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the risk and long-term outcome of stroke according to serum MIF level.

RESULTS

Serum MIF levels were only higher in acute-stage AIS patients compared with those of the normal controls (p < 0.0001). Chronic-stage serum MIF levels were significantly lower than acute-stage serum MIF levels (p < 0.001) and were similar to serum MIF levels in the controls (p = 0.392). The serum MIF level was positively associated with infarct volume (r = 0.5515, p < 0.0001) and NIHSS score (r = 0.5190, p < 0.0001). After adjusting for other significant outcome predictors, the serum MIF level was an independent predictor of long-term outcome, with an adjusted OR of 1.113 (p = 0.005, 95% CI: 1.051-1.238).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that serum MIF levels were significantly increased after AIS. Serum MIF levels at admission were positively correlated with infarct volume and long-term outcome in patients with AIS. The serum MIF level could serve as a useful prognostic marker in patients with AIS.