A Comparative Study of hs-CRP Diagnostic Value and ABCD2 Criteria in Predicting the Future Incidence of Acute Cerebrovascular Events during Follow-up in TIA Patients.

Background and purpose: Stroke is the most common and the most deadly neurological disease that is accompanied with many complications. The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic value of hs-CRP and ABCD2 criteria in predicting the future incidence of acute cerebrovascular events during follow-up in patients with transient ischemic attack (TIA). Materials and methods: This cohort study was performed in TIA patients during the first 24 hours of onset of symptoms. Blood samples were taken and demographic information was obtained, then hs-CRP was measured in all patients. History of hypertension, atherosclerosis, and ABCD2 scores were also recorded. Results: The patients (n= 135) included 69 (51.11%) male and 66 (48.88%) female cases. Eight subjects had a stroke within three months. There was no significant relationship between hs-CRP level and stroke incidence (P= 0.303), but ABCD2 cut-off scores of >1.5 had the most sensitivity (87.5%) and specificity (81.9) that could significantly predict the occurrence of stroke (P= 0.011). Systolic blood pressure (OR=1.04) and ABCD2 score (OR=2.43) could predict the occurrence of stroke (P <0.05). Findings showed a significant relationship between hs-CRP level and age (over 60 years) and the incidence of slurred speech (P <0.05). Conclusion: CRP level was not significantly associated with the incidence or absence of stroke in three months after TIA, but ABCD2 score was found to be more accurate in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]