Serum Albumin as a Predictor of Functional Outcomes Following Acute Ischemic Stroke

Stroke is currently the leading cause of neurological disability in adults [1]. Two-thirds of stroke survivors have
residual neurological deficits that impair their function,
and approximately 50% are left with disabilities, making
them dependent on others for activities of daily living
[2].
Following a stroke, the central nervous system undergoes reorganization during the process of functional
recovery. However, the degree of recovery is variable
and the processes subserving this recovery is incompletely understood. Neurophysiologic changes associated with recovery often begin within one to two weeks
following a stroke and may plateau within two and three
months, depending on the degree and extent of the neurologic deficit [3]. A large number of factors such as
admission functional ability, hemineglect, incontinence,
age, and others may influence the functional outcome of
stroke patients [4].
In undernourished people, strokelike acute illness may
lead to a negative energy balance and greater nutritional
demand. Stroke patients may not able to meet these
increased demands [5]. The level of serum albumin has
been acknowledged to bear marker of nutritional status
[6]. It can be a useful measure when acute changes in
nutrition need to be assessed. Baseline measurements of
serum albumin (<24 hours) may not be affected by the
acute stress response after stroke. Hypoalbuminaemia at
admission may be associated with premorbid nutritional
status attributable to the long half-life of albumin