Serum neuron-specific enolase and S100 calcium binding protein B biomarker levels do not improve diagnosis of acute stroke.

Background: The high sensitivities and specificities reported for blood biomarkers as a supportive test in the diagnosis of acute stroke do not correspond with their performance for decision-making in emergency situations.

Methods: Seventy-two patients with suspected stroke were recruited: 44 with ischaemic stroke, 17 with haemorrhagic stroke and 11 stroke mimics, as well as a high-risk control group of 79 individuals. Serum neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and S100 calcium binding protein B (S100B) biomarker levels were determined on admission, using immunoassay kits.

Short-term prognostic value of serum neuron specific enolase and S100B in acute stroke patients.

Objective: To explore the value of blood markers for brain injury as outcome predictors in acute stroke.

Design And Methods: The study included 61 patients with acute stroke (44 ischemic and 17 hemorrhagic) and a high risk control group (79 individuals with no known history of neurological disease). Serum neuron specific enolase (NSE) and S100B were determined by immunoassay (CanAg Diagnostics, Sweden).

[Use of event related potentials for the diagnosis and follow up of sub clinical disorders of sustained attention in ischemic cerebrovascular disease].

Introduction: Ischemic cerebrovascular disease causes cognitive disorders among survivors, which may range from vascular dementia to alterations of a sub clinical nature. These are not easily detected using conventional diagnostic tools. Some of the most frequent disorders after a cerebral infarction are those affecting sustained attention or vigilance.

[Cryptococcosis of the central nervous system. A report of five cases].

Introduction: Since the 1980s, in relation to the spread of AIDS, there has been an enormous increase in cryptococcosis, a mycotic disorder which usually affects the central nervous system (CNS). This disease is caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, a microorganism acquired by inhalation of bird excrement. This germ produces a capsule which protects it from phagocytosis, can synthesize melanin which acts as an antioxidant of the cytotoxic lymphocytes and can reproduce at body temperature.