Elevated plasma levels of galectin-3 binding protein are associated with post-stroke delirium – A pilot study.

To explore the role of systemic inflammation in post-stroke delirium, we investigated the level of two inflammatory mediators: high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and galectin-3 binding protein (Gal-3BP). Of 571 stroke patients, we compared plasma levels of HMGB1 and Gal-3BP in 79 delirious patients with 81 non-delirious patients matched for age and stroke severity. Delirious patients had higher Gal-3BP level (median: 1440 vs 1053 ng/mL, P < 0.01). An elevated level of Gal-3BP was associated with an increased risk of delirium. HMGB1 levels did not differ between groups. Our results suggest that pro-inflammatory monocytes and macrophages might be involved in delirium pathophysiology. [Display omitted] • Systemic inflammation might trigger or exacerbate delirium. • Elevated level of Gal-3BP is associated with higher risk of post-stroke delirium. • Plasma level of HMGB1 is not increased in patients with post-stroke delirium. • Pro-inflammatory monocytes/macrophages can play a role in delirium pathophysiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]