Clinical Profiles of Dyslipidaemia in Stroke Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

          Background: Stroke remains a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide, with dyslipidaemia recognized as a major modifiable risk factor. Identifying lipid abnormalities among stroke patients is essential for prevention and long-term management, particularly in developing countries like Bangladesh where population-specific data are limited.

Methods: This observational study was conducted among hospitalized patients in the Medicine and Neurology Departments of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, from July 2008 to December 2008. A total of 100 consecutive stroke patients were included. Patients presenting with acute or recurrent stroke and not on anti-lipid drugs were enrolled after obtaining informed consent. Detailed clinical evaluation, including neurological and cardiovascular examination, was performed. Serum lipid profile was measured using the spectrophotometric method with the RA–50 Chemistry Analyzer.

Results: Male predominance was observed, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.55:1. Most patients were above 60 years of age. Based on waist circumference, 32% were obese. Clinical signs of dyslipidaemia included arcus lipidus in 10% and xanthoma in 9%. Only 33% had optimal LDL levels, while 77% had abnormal LDL, among whom 47% were ischaemic stroke. Elevated total cholesterol was found in 44% and low HDL in 30% of patients, of whom 38% and 22% respectively had ischaemic stroke.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates a high prevalence of dyslipidaemia among stroke patients, particularly those with ischaemic stroke. Routine lipid screening and aggressive management are recommended to reduce stroke risk.