Association of Platelet Indices with Clinical Outcomes and Risk Factors in Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Single-Centre Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Stroke is a leading global cause of disability and death, with platelet indices emerging as potential biomarkers for risk and prognosis. This study aims to characterize the distribution of these indices in stroke patients and examine their associations with clinical outcomes and established risk factors.

Material and methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Cumilla Medical College Hospital from September 2021 to March 2022, on 200 adults diagnosed as acute ischemic stroke patients within 48 hours of symptom onset. Patients with haemorrhagic stroke or platelet disorders were excluded.

Results: The study involved 200 patients, predominantly aged 61–80 years (53%), with a mean age of 67.5±13.5 years. Large infarction was the most common stroke subtype (77.5%), followed by lacunar infarction (22.5%). Headache (60%) and vomiting (44%) were the most frequent symptoms, alongside motor weakness, particularly right-sided hemiparesis (32.5%). Hypertension (56%) and smoking (50.5%) emerged as the leading risk factors. Regarding clinical outcomes, 25% improved, 62.5% developed disabilities and 12.5% died. Significant variations in platelet indices were noted across socioeconomic status, smoking habits and clinical outcomes. Higher MPV, PLCR, and PDW were observed in the high socioeconomic group (p<0.05). Smokers exhibited significantly higher MPV, PLCR, and PDW compared to non-smokers (p<0.05). Similarly, patients who died had the highest MPV (9.80±1.10 fL), PLCR (38.80±8.50%) and PDW (18.20±1.80 fL) all significantly elevated compared to those with disability or improvement (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The study revealed that elevated platelet indices are associated with smoking, higher socioeconomic status and worse clinical outcomes in stroke patients.

IAHS Medical Journal Vol 8(2), December 2025; 80-86