[Plasma homocysteine levels in patients with transient ischemic attacks].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate plasma homocysteine (Hcy) levels in patients with atherotrombotic transient ischemic attacks (TIA), its temporal profile and response to folic acid (FA) treatment.


METHODS
Hcy was determined in 62 patients and in 69 controls.


RESULTS
There were no differences (p < 0.87) of baseline Hcy in TIA patients vs controls. Hcy levels were higher 4-6 weeks after TIA (p = 0.02). FA treatment decreases the Hcy levels (p < 0.00001).


CONCLUSIONS
Hyperhomocisteinemia is a possible risk factor for atherothrombotic TIA and should be measured between 4-6 weeks after TIA. Treatment with FA normalizes Hcy levels.
Alvarez Sabín
J
J
Unidad Cerebrovascular, Hospital General Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona.
Turón
J
J
Montaner
J
J
Malinow
R
R
Codina
A
A
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D016893:Carotid Stenosis / Q000175:diagnosis; D005260:Female; D005492:Folic Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006710:Homocysteine / Q000097:blood*; D006801:Humans; D002546:Ischemic Attack, Transient / Q000097:blood* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
D006710:Homocysteine; D005492:Folic Acid