An evaluation of the ability of thrombospondin-1 to predict stroke outcomes and mortality after ischemic stroke

Introduction Thrombspondin-1 (TSP-1) is a glycoprotein that has a variety of functions including suppression of angiogenesis and regulation of extracellular matrix deposition. These functions are central to the recovery process after stroke. Data regarding the association and predictive value of TSP-1 and stroke outcomes are limited. Patients and methods Patients with ischemic stroke who referred to King Abdullah University Hospital were evaluated for inclusion. The level of serum TSP-1 on admission was assayed using ELISA. Data regarding comorbid diseases as well as stroke severity at baseline, functional outcome and mortality at 6 months were collected prospectively. Favorable outcome was identified as NIHSS or mRS <= 1. Results Ninety-six patients with an average age of 66.7 years were included. One-third of the patients (32 patients) had favorable outcome on admission. The serum TSP-1 levels in patients with favorable outcome were significantly higher (719.7 vs. 639.9;p = 0.028). Similarly, patients with favorable outcome at 6 months had higher levels of TSP-1 at baseline (714.3 vs. 614.7;p = 0.003). TSP-1 was identified as an independent predictor of favorable outcome at baseline (OR = 0.993,p = 0.038) and after 6 months (OR = 0.99,p = 0.008). Conclusion TSP-1 can predict favorable outcomes with regard to the initial severity and long-term functional outcome.