Low HDL Cholesterol Levels (HDL-C) Associated with a Higher Risk of Infections in Patients Hospitalized for Acute Ischemic Stroke (iStroke) (P5.217)

Objective: To determine whether low HDL-C levels are related to a higher risk of infectious complications in patients hospitalized for iStroke. Background: Infections are common complications in patients hospitalized for iStroke, and worsen their clinical outcome. Low levels of HDL-C have been found to be associated to different inflammatory and immune conditions. HDL-C has anti-inflammatory effects and plays a role in the innate immune system and has a protective action against the toxic effects or microorganisms. Methods: A prospective analysis of adult patients with iStroke hospitalized between June 2010 and June 2013 in our department. Cross-sectional data analysis for hypothesis-based comparison. The incidence of infections during hospital stay was assessed. The association with low levels of HDL-C (reference value 40-60 mg/dL), diabetes and other laboratory parameters, such as the lipid profile and white blood cell count were assessed. Results: Our data base included 1240 patients with iStroke; 141 (11.4[percnt]) developed infectious complications during their hospital stay. Mean age was 78.75 years. Mean HDL-C value was de 37.47 +/- 1.7. In patients who did not develop infections, the mean HDL-C value was 44.79 +/- 0.63. This association of lower HDL-C levels with a higher incidence of infections was significant (p < 0.001). In patients who developed infectious complications, the mean total cholesterol level, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides was 168.37; 102.99 and 108.58 respectively. In patients without infectious complications 172.46; 104.56 and 117.82. No significant differences were observed between these two groups for these variables. After adjusting this data and other known risk factors for the development of infections, such as diabetes, lipids and white blood cell count, the result was statistically significant as well. Conclusions: It was evidenced that low levels of HDL-C are independently associated with a higher risk of infectious complications during the hospital stay of patients with iStroke. Disclosure: Dr. Pagano Ajolfi has nothing to disclose. Dr. Alfonso has nothing to disclose. Dr. Maiques has nothing to disclose. Dr. Huerta has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sanz has nothing to disclose. Dr. Giannaula has received personal compensation for activities with Boehringer Ingelheim.