Hyperhomocysteinemia and ischemic stroke

Overview

Atherosclerosis is a widespread multifactorial disease. Its complications represent the most frequent cause of death in developed countries. Nowadays we know many risk factors which may lead to a rapid progression of atherosclerosis. Hyperhomocysteinemia is one of these factors which is not related to lipid metabolism. Many recent epidemiological studies have suggested that a high blood level of homocysteine is an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke. The coincidence of hyperhomocysteinémia and other risk factors of atherosclerosis significantly increases morbidity and mortality. Substitutional therapy with folic acid, vitamin B₆ and B₁₂ decreases the blood level of homocysteine.

Key words:
homocysteine, hyperhomocysteinemia, cerebral stroke, primary and secondary prevention