Abstract
Objective: To describe the clinical and paraclinical characteristics and high-sensitivity Troponin I (Troponin I hs) levels in patients with acute ischemic stroke at Bach Mai Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 60 patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke treated at Bach Mai Hospital. Study subjects underwent a comprehensive clinical assessment and paraclinical investigations, including Troponin I hs testing, electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, and brain imaging. Results: The mean age of the study group was 72.1 years, with a male predominance. The rate of early admission within the "golden window" (≤ 4,5 hours) was 66,7%. The most common cardiovascular risk factors were hypertension (63.3%), dyslipidemia (18,3%), and diabetes mellitus (15%). The most frequent clinical symptoms were hemiparesis/hemiplegia (86,7%), headache (56,7%), and facial palsy (48,3%). Regarding paraclinical findings, the rate of significant carotid artery stenosis (≥ 50%) was 30%. Notably, the prevalence of elevated Troponin I hs levels was 26,7%. Patients in this group tended to have a higher burden of underlying cardiovascular diseases and atrial fibrillation. Conclusion: Acute ischemic stroke is common in the elderly with a significant burden of underlying cardiovascular diseases. Elevated Troponin I hs levels occur in approximately one-quarter of patients, suggesting a close relationship between brain and heart injury. Routine Troponin I hs testing should be considered to screen for concomitant cardiovascular injury.
