Rationale: According to literature, the inflammatory response and platelets are associated with coronary heart disease mortality. In this study, we examine if similar relationships exist after acute cerebral infarctions. Design: Between 2005 and 2007, individuals (n = 61) hospitalized with acute stroke were investigated 2.1 +/- .3 (SD) days after hospital admission. After 9.3 +/- .7 (SD) years, 29 patients (age 79 +/- 8 [SD]; 12 women) had died. They were compared with survivors (age 69 +/- 9 [SD]; 9 women) with respect to inflammatory parameters and platelet features such as activity and reactivity. Results and conclusion: Inflammation and platelets at the acute event do not forecast long-term survival of stroke sufferers.