The Role of serial measurement of neuron specific enolase in predicting the prognosis of ischemic stroke

Abstract

A marker for cerebral damage which can be estimated from venous blood samples would be a great help in predicting prognosis. Neuron specific enolase(NSE) is a glycolytic enzyme present almost exclusively in neurons and neuroendocrine cells. This enzyme is released into the CSF when neural tissue is injured. The study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of NSE in patients with ischemic stroke. Method : We investigated 101 pateints with acute ischemic stroke who were admitted within 48 hours from initial symptom. Patients were classified with Trial of Org 10172 in acute stroke treatment (TOAST) classification. Venous sampling was taken at admission and follow sampling was taken 10 days later. NSE was analyzed by use of enzyme immunoassays. In all patients, magnetic resonance image was analyzed. The neurological status was evaluated by a standardized neurological examination and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). Functional outcome was measured with the modified Rankin scale at discharge