Detection of high serum concentration of CXC chemokine ligand-12 in acute intracerebral hemorrhage

Background CXC chemokine ligand-12 (CXCL12), a member of the CXC chemokine subfamily, is involved in both focal angiogenesis and inflammatory reactions. We examined serum CXCL12 concentration in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients and its correlation to stroke severity and outcome. Methods The study was carried out on 105 ICH patients on 105 healthy controls. Serum samples were at admission obtained to measure CXCL12 concentrations. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and hematoma volume were recorded to assess stroke severity. Results As compared to the controls, CXCL12 concentrations were significantly increased in the patients. Also, non-survivors within 6 months and patients with an unfavorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale score > 2) at 6 months had higher CXCL12 concentrations than other remaining ones. CXCL12 concentrations had positive correlation with NIHSS scores and hematoma volume. Serum CXCL12 significantly discriminated patients at risk of 6-month mortality and 6-month unfavorable outcome under receiver operating characteristic curve. Moreover, serum CXCL12 was independently associated with the mortality, overall survival and unfavorable outcome. Conclusions Serum CXCL12 concentrations are enhanced after ICH and CXCL12 in serum has the potential to reflect severity and prognosis following hemorrhagic stroke.