A Cross-Sectional Observational Study to Assess Red Cell Distribution Width as a Novel Biomarker for the Prediction of Severity of Acute Ischemic Stroke

Background: Stroke, a leading cause of death and disability, is primarily classified into ischemic and hemorrhagic types. Red Cell Distribution Width, measures the variability in red blood cell size, is an emerging biomarker linked to stroke severity. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of Red Cell Distribution Width in predicting stroke severity and to assess potential drug-drug interactions that could lead to adverse drug reactions in acute ischemic stroke patients. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted over a six-month period and included 120 patients diagnosed with cerebral infarction. Red Cell Distribution Width and other parameters were measured and correlated with stroke severity using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and Glasgow Coma Scale scores. The patients were monitored throughout their stay. Pearson correlation analysis was employed for data evaluation. Results: Among 120 patients, 75% were male and 25% were female, with majority of patients aged between 55 and 85 years. The results indicated significantly higher values in patients with severe strokes (p value <0.001). A positive correlation was observed between Red Cell Distribution Width and the standard stroke score (r=0.11), while a weak negative correlation was found with Glasgow Coma Scale score (r=-0.04). Hemoglobin also exhibited a weak negative correlation with stroke severity. Drug-drug interactions were identified in 39% of patients, and adverse drug reactions included nasal bleeding and hematuria. Conclusion: Red Cell Distribution Width is a promising and accessible biomarker for assessing the severity of acute ischemic stroke and the associated mortality risk.