Distribution of Elevated Serum Uric Acid Levels among Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke - A Cross Sectional Study from Northeast India

Background: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) remains a major cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Serum uric acid (SUA), a biomarker with dual antioxidant and pro‑oxidant properties, has been increasingly investigated for its prognostic relevance in AIS. However, data from Northeast India are limited. Objective: To evaluate the distribution of demographic, clinical, and biochemical characteristics of AIS patients, with particular emphasis on serum uric acid levels. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 100 patients with AIS who met the inclusion criteria. Demographic details, comorbidities, and socioeconomic status were documented. Stroke severity was examined using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). SUA levels were measured using uricase‑based enzymatic assays. Results: The majority of patients were aged 51–60 years (41%). The cohort showed a male predominance (76%). Hypertension (43%) and diabetes (25%) were the most common comorbidities. The mean SUA concentration was 5.1 ± 1.4 mg/dL, within the physiological range. Nearly half of the patients presented with mild (45%) or moderate (46%) stroke severity, with a mean NIHSS score of 7.4 ± 5.8. Mortality was observed in 8% of cases, consistent with contemporary hospital‑based cohorts. Conclusion: AIS patients in Northeast India demonstrated SUA levels within normal limits, predominantly mild‑to‑moderate stroke severity, and relatively low mortality. The results suggest that moderate levels of SUA might help protect the brain, but very high or low levels could be harmful. More large, multicentre studies are needed to better understand how SUA can be used as a marker and treatment in AIS. Key words: Acute ischemic stroke, Serum uric acid, Neuroprotection, Prognostic biomarker, Stroke severity, Northeast India