Evaluation of Quality of Anticoagulation Therapy Among Neurological Patients: An Institutional Based Study

ABSTRACT

Background: Oral anticoagulation (OAC) is used in neurology practice for primary and secondary stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF), prosthetic mechanical valve; dilated cardiomyopathy (DCMP) and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST). This study evaluates the quality of oral anticoagulation therapy in neurology patients. Methods: Patients attending neurology service in KPC Medical College and Hospital, Jadavpur, Kolkata, West Benga (India); who were prescribed oral anticoagulant (OAC) were included. The international normalized ratio (INR) values of the patients who were already on OAC were analyzed. The level of anticoagulation, factors interfering with OAC and complications were noted. Results: Total 90 patients were included in study with median age 35±10 years. Ten were excluded as follow up was not done properly. Final study involves 80 patients. Fifty-eight patients received OAC for stroke prevention, 17 for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) and 5 for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Follow up was done for 2 years. Of the total 947 INR reports, 362 were below and 231 were above the therapeutic level. Stable INR was obtained in 36 patients only. INR level was improved by dose adjustment in 25 patients, and dietary adjustment in eight patients. Five patients were sensitive and three were resistant to OAC. Complications were noted in 14 instances. Conclusions: Stable therapeutic INR is difficult to maintain in neurological patients. However, modification of diet, drug and dose of oral anticoagulant may help in stabilization of INR. The findings support the need for educational interventions to improve the knowledge regarding OAT and, thereby, prevention of stroke.