Red cell deformability is not an independent risk factor in stroke.

Abstract

Reduced erythrocyte deformability has been implicated in the causation of stroke. This red cell property was tested by filtration through polycarbonate membranes in 42 patients with either transient ischemic attacks or completed ischemic stroke together with age and sex paired controls. No difference was found between patients and controls. Reduced red cell deformability is unlikely to be an important independent factor in the production of stroke.