Ischemic Stroke in COVID-19: A Systematic Review

Aims: To determine an association between inflammatory and coagulation markers in a COVID-19 patient with ischemic stroke.

Study Design: We performed a systematic review of 4 databases using the keywords “ischemic”, “stroke”, “COVID-19”,” Virus”

Place and Duration of Study: December 2021 - January 2022.

Methodology: Randomised control trials, observational studies, and systematic reviews were evaluated to ascertain the correlation between inflammatory and coagulation markers in COVID-19 patients with Ischemic stroke. Searches were conducted using Cochrane/EMBASE, PubMed/Medline, and PEDro between (2020-2021).

Results: Of the inflammatory markers, white blood cells (WBC) and platelets did not vary considerably outside their normal ranges. All markers of hypercoagulability were elevated, but only Prothrombin Time corresponded with C-reactive protein (CRP).

Conclusion: Inflammatory markers were not useful in forecasting the development of acute ischemic stroke, but CRP levels may be a possible marker to further research. D-dimer is a tried and true lab test that should be part of management guidelines in the ongoing COVID pandemic.