Blood lipid levels and acute ischemic stroke: A meta-analysis

Abstract

Objective: This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the association between lipid profiles and the risk of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) when using thrombolysis to treat acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods: We included 11 studies from various geographic regions, focusing on patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis. Lipid parameters such as high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol, and triglycerides were examined.

Results: While no discernible correlation was found between total cholesterol levels and sICH risk, two studies reported significantly lower LDL levels in patients with sICH. Additionally, lower HDL levels and elevated triglycerides correlated with increased sICH risk in specific studies.

Conclusion: These findings highlight the complex role of lipid profiles in stroke management, particularly in the context of thrombolytic therapy. Sensitivity analyses validated the robustness of the findings, suggesting that lipid management strategies should be individualized for AIS patients to balance ischemic and hemorrhagic risks. Future large-scale randomized trials are warranted to validate these findings.