HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AMONGST ACUTE STROKE PATIENTS MANAGED AT A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN ABAKALIKI NIGERIA: A CASE-CONTROL STUDY.

INTRODUCTION

Changes in the haematological indices could have implications for stroke risk, management plan, and outcome. There are limited data on the pattern of haematological parameters of acute stroke patients in Nigeria despite its impact on stroke risk, management, and outcome.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the pattern and the prognostic implications of the haematological parameters in acute stroke patients managed over a nine-year period at a Tertiary Hospital in Abakaliki Nigeria.

METHODOLOGY

This was a retrospective hospital-based case-control study of the haematological parameters of acute stroke patients seen over a nine-year period at a tertiary hospital in Abakaliki Nigeria.

RESULTS

The mean total white blood cell count and percentage neutrophil in the case group were significantly higher than the control group while the mean packed cell volume did not show any significant difference. Further analysis of the case group revealed that the mean PCV was significantly lower among female folks, elderly age group, those with low education attainment, impaired renal status, short admission duration, haemorrhagic stroke, and admitting hypertension. On the other hand, mean total WBC count and differential neutrophils were significantly elevated among female folks, working-class age group, low educational status, longer admission duration, mortality, and haemorrhagic stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated total white blood cell count and differential neutrophilia were significantly associated with acute stroke. Changes in haematological parameters have implications for stroke risk and outcome.