Stroke

Stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked (ischemic) or when a blood vessel ruptures (hemorrhagic). Lab testing cannot diagnose an acute stroke—that requires emergency imaging—but labs do reveal risk factors and contributing conditions that you and your clinician can address.

A practical plan starts with cholesterol and glucose control (lipid panel, A1c/glucose), then refines risk with ApoB(particle number), lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] (genetic risk), and hs-CRP (inflammation). Add kidney markers(creatinine/eGFR, urine albumin-creatinine) and coagulation tests when needed. In younger adults or cryptogenic strokes/TIAs, a hypercoagulable evaluation (antiphospholipid antibodies, Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin G20210A, homocysteine) may be appropriate under clinician guidance.
Use these tests to screen, support diagnosis when appropriate, and monitor trends. They complement—not replace—accurate blood-pressure measurement, ECG/heart-rhythm evaluation for atrial fibrillation, carotid and brain imaging, and urgent care when symptoms are severe.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Know the red flags (emergency): sudden Face droop, Arm weakness, Speech trouble—Time to call 911. Also: new severe headache, vision loss, one-sided numbness, confusion, dizziness with imbalance.

  • Prevention & baseline: family history of stroke; high blood pressure; diabetes/prediabetes; high LDL or triglycerides; chronic kidney disease; smoking/nicotine; migraine with aura (discuss with clinician).

  • Possible contributors: irregular heartbeat or atrial fibrillation, carotid disease, recent infection/inflammation, high Lp(a), antiphospholipid syndrome, sickle cell disease (children/young adults).

  • After TIA/minor stroke (clinician-directed): labs to clarify cause and guide secondary prevention.

Symptoms and TIAs require clinician evaluation immediately.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Quantify risk beyond basic cholesterol with ApoBLp(a), and hs-CRP.

  • Identify contributors (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease, clotting disorders, anemia) that change prevention and treatment plans.

  • Monitor safety and progress after medications or lifestyle changes (lipids, A1c, kidney function, INR if on warfarin).

What testing cannot do

  • Confirm or rule out an acute stroke (that needs emergency imaging and examination).

  • Replace blood-pressure control, ECG/heart-rhythm monitoring, carotid/brain imaging, or specialist evaluation.

  • Predict events with certainty; context and trends matter.

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Lipid Panel & non-HDL-C: core cholesterol profile; non-HDL-C captures all atherogenic cholesterol.

  • Apolipoprotein B (ApoB): counts all atherogenic particles; helpful when triglycerides are high or LDL-C is discordant.

  • Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]: genetic, largely lifelong; higher levels increase risk of ischemic stroke and calcific valve disease.

  • High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP): marker of low-grade inflammation; trend over time.

  • A1c / Fasting Glucose (± Insulin): glucose control; insulin resistance accelerates vascular disease.

  • Kidney Health: Creatinine/eGFR and urine albumin-creatinine (ACR)—kidney disease raises vascular risk.

  • CBC & CMP/Electrolytes: anemia or infection/inflammation context; liver/renal function for medication safety.

  • Coagulation (PT/INR, aPTT ± fibrinogen): baseline bleeding/clotting status; INR monitoring if on warfarin.

  • Hypercoagulable Workup (select cases): Antiphospholipid antibodies (lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin, β2-glycoprotein I), Factor V LeidenProthrombin G20210Ahomocysteine. Ordered when history/age/presentation suggests.

  • Thyroid (TSH ± Free T4): hyper- or hypothyroidism can influence rhythm and vascular risk.

  • Sickle Cell / Hemoglobinopathy (as indicated): hemoglobin evaluation in children/young adults or per ancestry/history.

Quick Build Guide

Goal Start with Add if needed
General stroke-risk screen Lipid Panel • A1c/Glucose non-HDL-C • ApoB • Lp(a) • hs-CRP
After TIA/minor stroke (with clinician) Lipids • A1c • CBC/CMP • PT/INR/aPTT ApoB • Lp(a) • ACR/eGFR • TSH
Young/cryptogenic stroke Baseline above Antiphospholipid panel • FVL/Prothrombin G20210A • Homocysteine
Atrial fibrillation or suspected AF Lipids • A1c • TSH ACR/eGFR for anticoagulant dosing; INR (if on warfarin)
CKD or diabetes present Lipid Panel • A1c ACR/eGFR • ApoB • Lp(a) • hs-CRP

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Choose your starting panel: lipids, A1c/glucose, CBC/CMP, and kidney markers (eGFR, ACR).

  2. Refine risk: add ApoBLp(a), and hs-CRP; consider coagulation tests or hypercoagulable panels if your clinician suggests.

  3. Prepare for accuracy: follow any fasting instructions; schedule on a recovery day; keep supplements consistent unless your order lists holds (biotin can affect some assays).

  4. Get your draw: visit a nearby patient service center; most results post within a few days.

  5. Review & plan: discuss results with your clinician; combine with blood-pressure logs, ECG/monitoring for AF, and imaging. Set a follow-up cadence.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • LDL-C & non-HDL-C: lower values generally reduce risk; pair with ApoB to assess particle burden.

  • Lp(a): treat elevation as added lifetime risk; values are largely genetic and stable.

  • hs-CRP: use trends, not single spikes; retest after illness or strenuous exercise.

  • A1c/Glucose & Kidney markers: tighter glucose control and healthy kidneys lower vascular risk.

  • Coagulation & hypercoagulable tests: abnormal results need clinician review; some findings require confirmation on repeat testing and timing off acute events.
    Always interpret labs with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Starter set (most adults): Lipid Panel + non-HDL-C + A1c/Glucose + CBC/CMP + ACR/eGFR

  • Risk refinement: ApoB + Lp(a) + hs-CRP

  • Secondary-cause evaluation (select): Antiphospholipid antibodiesFactor V LeidenProthrombin G20210Ahomocysteine (clinician-directed)

  • Medication monitoring: INR for warfarin; kidney function for direct oral anticoagulants per clinician

FAQs

Can blood tests diagnose a stroke?
No. Acute stroke is diagnosed with emergency imaging and examination. Labs assess risk and contributing conditions.

Do I need to fast?
Often for lipids and glucose. Follow the instructions on your order.

What is Lp(a) and why check it?
Lipoprotein(a) is a genetic particle that increases stroke and heart risk. One lifetime measurement is often useful.

Should everyone get a hypercoagulable panel?
No. It’s usually reserved for younger patients, unusual presentations, or cryptogenic events—decided with your clinician.

If my numbers improve, am I protected from stroke?
Improvement lowers risk, but blood-pressure controlAF detection/management, and healthy habits still matter.

How often should I repeat labs?
Commonly every 3–12 months to track risk factors; your clinician will tailor timing.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Heart & Cardiovascular Tests Hub

  • Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Tests • Cholesterol Tests • High Blood Pressure Tests • Heart Health Tests • Heart Attack Risk Tests • Diabetes & Insulin Resistance • Kidney Health

  • Key Tests : Lipid Panel • non-HDL-C • ApoB • Lp(a) • hs-CRP • A1c/Glucose (± Insulin) • Creatinine/eGFR • Urine ACR • CBC/CMP • PT/INR & aPTT • Antiphospholipid Panel • Factor V Leiden • Prothrombin G20210A • Homocysteine • TSH • Hemoglobin Evaluation (as indicated)

References

  • American Heart Association/American Stroke Association — Primary and secondary stroke prevention guidance.
  • U.S. Preventive Services Task Force — Cardiovascular risk and diabetes screening recommendations.
  • National Lipid Association — ApoB and Lp(a) scientific statements.
  • KDIGO — Kidney disease evaluation and albumin-creatinine testing guidance.
  • Guidance on antiphospholipid antibody testing and interpretation.
  • Clinical reviews on cryptogenic stroke and hypercoagulable evaluation.
  • Stroke and Lab Testing: What You Need to Know

Available Tests & Panels

Your Stroke Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Select a core risk panel (lipids, A1c/glucose, CBC/CMP, ACR/eGFR), add ApoBLp(a), and hs-CRP to refine risk, and include coagulation or hypercoagulable tests when your clinician recommends them. Review results together to personalize prevention and follow-up.

 

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The Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) Test measures how long it takes blood to clot, evaluating clotting factors and overall coagulation function. Abnormal results may indicate bleeding disorders, hemophilia, liver disease, or clotting factor deficiencies. Doctors also use this test to monitor patients on heparin therapy. Results provide essential insight into blood clotting, bleeding risk, and treatment management for safe medical care.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: aPTT Test, PTT Test

The Prothrombin Time with INR Test measures how long it takes blood to clot and calculates the international normalized ratio (INR) for accuracy. It is commonly used to monitor patients on blood-thinning medications like warfarin and to evaluate bleeding disorders, liver disease, or vitamin K deficiency. Doctors order this test to investigate easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding and to ensure safe and effective anticoagulant therapy.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: PT with INR Test

The Prothrombin with INR and Partial Thromboplastin Times Test measures how long blood takes to clot by evaluating PT, INR, and aPTT. Abnormal results may indicate clotting disorders, liver disease, vitamin K deficiency, or risk of bleeding and thrombosis. Doctors use this test to monitor patients on blood thinners like warfarin, assess unexplained bleeding, and evaluate clotting function. It provides critical insight into coagulation and overall blood health.

Also Known As: PT with INR and aPTT Test, PT/INR and PTT Test

The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test

Most Popular

The Glucose Test measures blood sugar levels to evaluate energy metabolism and screen for diabetes or prediabetes. Abnormal glucose may indicate hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, or metabolic disorders. Doctors use this test during routine exams, to investigate symptoms like fatigue, excessive thirst, or frequent urination, and to monitor treatment for diabetes. It provides essential insight into how the body regulates blood sugar and overall metabolic health.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Fasting Glucose Test, Fasting Blood Sugar Test

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Test measures 21 markers to assess metabolic health, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance. It includes glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, total protein, bilirubin, ALP, AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine, BUN/creatinine ratio, and eGFR. The CMP helps detect diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and supports routine screening and chronic condition monitoring.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: CMP Test, Chemistry Panel Test, Chem Test, Chem 21 Test, Chem 14 Test 

The Lipid Panel with Ratios Test measures seven key markers: total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, non-HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, Chol/HDL ratio, and LDL/HDL ratio. This advanced panel evaluates cardiovascular risk by assessing cholesterol balance and fat metabolism. Doctors use it to detect high cholesterol, atherosclerosis risk, and heart disease, and to monitor treatment. Often part of routine exams, it provides insight into long-term heart and metabolic health.

Also Known As: Lipid Profile Test, Cholesterol Panel Test, Lipid Blood Test

The Cardiolipin IgG IgA IgM Antibodies Test detects autoantibodies linked to antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), a disorder that increases the risk of blood clots, stroke, and pregnancy complications. Measuring IgG, IgA, and IgM helps identify abnormal immune responses. Doctors use this test to evaluate patients with unexplained clotting, recurrent miscarriages, or autoimmune disease, guiding diagnosis and treatment of APS and related conditions.

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Blood Draw
Panel Contains Test: Anticardiolipin Antibodies Test, aCL Antibody Test, Cardiolipin Antibodies Test

The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern Test detects antinuclear antibodies in blood to evaluate autoimmune activity. If positive, further testing identifies antibody concentration (titer) and fluorescence pattern, helping diagnose conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, rash, or swelling and to guide treatment for autoimmune and connective tissue disorders.

Also Known As: ANA Test, Antinuclear Antibody Screen Test

The Troponin I Test measures levels of cardiac troponin I in blood to help diagnose heart attack, myocardial injury, and acute coronary syndrome. Elevated levels indicate heart muscle damage from blocked arteries, inflammation, or other cardiac stress. Doctors order this test for patients with chest pain, shortness of breath, or suspected heart disease. Results provide critical insight for early detection, treatment decisions, and ongoing heart health monitoring.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: TnI Test, cTnI Test, Cardiac Troponin Test

The Creatine Kinase (CK) Total Test measures CK enzyme levels in blood to detect muscle injury, inflammation, or stress. Elevated CK may indicate muscle disorders, heart attack, strenuous exercise, or conditions such as rhabdomyolysis, while low levels are less common. Doctors use this test to evaluate unexplained muscle pain, weakness, or chest pain and to monitor recovery. It provides insight into muscle, cardiac, and overall metabolic health.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: CK Total Test, Creatine Phosphokinase, CPK Test

The Protein C Activity Test measures the activity of protein C, a natural anticoagulant that regulates blood clotting. Low activity can indicate inherited or acquired protein C deficiency, increasing the risk of abnormal clot formation, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism. This test supports evaluation of clotting disorders and provides insight into overall coagulation balance and vascular health.

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Blood Draw

The Antithrombin III Activity Test evaluates how effectively antithrombin controls clot formation in the blood. Reduced activity may indicate a hereditary deficiency, abnormal coagulation, or increased risk for venous thrombosis. This test provides insight into clotting disorders, supports diagnosis of thrombophilia, and helps assess vascular health and systemic risks related to impaired anticoagulant activity.

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Blood Draw

The Protein S Activity Test evaluates blood clot regulation by measuring the function of protein S, a vitamin K–dependent anticoagulant. Reduced activity may indicate inherited or acquired deficiency, leading to risk of venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or recurrent clotting disorders. This test provides important insight into coagulation balance and is frequently used with other assays to clarify causes of abnormal clot formation and assess thrombotic risk.

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Blood Draw

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Most Popular

The Sed Rate Test, also called the ESR Test, measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a sample of blood. A faster rate may signal inflammation caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, arthritis, or other chronic conditions. Doctors use this test to investigate unexplained fever, joint pain, or muscle aches, and to monitor inflammatory disorders such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. The Sed Rate Test provides important insight into overall inflammatory activity.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Test, ESR Test, Sedimentation Rate Test, Westergren Sedimentation Rate Test

The Sedimentation Rate Blood Test, also called the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) Test, measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a sample. A faster rate can signal inflammation linked to arthritis, autoimmune disease, or infection. Doctors order this test when patients have symptoms like joint pain, fever, or fatigue. While not diagnostic alone, results provide valuable insight into inflammatory activity and help guide further evaluation and treatment.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Sed Rate Test

The Syphilis (RPR + FTA-ABS) panel is a diagnostic tool used to detect and confirm the presence of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This panel combines two tests: the RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) Screen with Reflex to Titer, and the FTA-ABS (Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption) test, offering both initial screening and confirmatory diagnosis capabilities.
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Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

The Activated Protein C-Resistance Test evaluates how blood responds to activated protein C, helping identify resistance often caused by Factor V Leiden mutation. This test supports assessment of abnormal clotting, deep vein thrombosis, and inherited thrombophilia. By measuring clotting response, it provides insight into genetic risks, venous thromboembolism, and overall coagulation health.

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Blood Draw

The Antiphospholipid Antibody Panel measures autoantibodies such as anticardiolipin, beta-2 glycoprotein I, and lupus anticoagulant associated with abnormal blood clotting. Elevated levels are linked to antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), recurrent pregnancy loss, stroke, or deep vein thrombosis. This test supports evaluation of autoimmune conditions, unexplained thrombosis, and risks of vascular or pregnancy complications.


The Cardio IQ™ Lp-PLA2 PLAC® Test measures lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2, an enzyme linked to vascular inflammation and plaque instability. Elevated levels are associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease and ischemic stroke. Doctors use this blood test to assess cardiovascular risk beyond standard cholesterol testing, helping guide prevention and treatment strategies to reduce risk of heart attack or stroke.

Also Known As: LpPLA2 Test, Ps-PLA2 Activity Test, Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 Test

The HDL Cholesterol Test measures high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, often called “good” cholesterol, which helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Higher HDL levels are linked to a lower risk of heart disease, while low levels may increase cardiovascular risk. Doctors use this blood test as part of a lipid panel to assess heart health, evaluate risk factors, and guide lifestyle or treatment strategies for cardiovascular disease prevention.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Good Cholesterol Test

The Cholesterol Total Test measures the overall amount of cholesterol in blood, combining LDL and HDL, to evaluate cardiovascular health. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, atherosclerosis, and stroke, while low levels may also affect health. Doctors use this test for routine screening, monitoring treatment, and assessing heart risk. Results provide key insight into lipid balance, helping guide lifestyle changes and therapy decisions.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Blood Cholesterol Test

The Blood Culture Test detects bacteria or fungi in the bloodstream to diagnose serious infections like sepsis, endocarditis, or systemic fungal infections. Doctors order this test when patients have fever, chills, or low blood pressure. Positive results identify the type of pathogen and guide targeted antibiotic or antifungal treatment. Early detection through blood culture is critical for effective care, preventing complications, and improving patient outcomes.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Blood Bacteria Test, Fungal Blood Test, Sepsis Test

The Factor V Leiden Mutation Analysis detects a genetic mutation in the F5 gene that increases risk of abnormal blood clotting (thrombophilia). Individuals with this mutation may be prone to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, or pregnancy complications. Doctors use this DNA test to confirm inherited clotting disorders, assess family risk, and guide prevention strategies, including anticoagulation or lifestyle management.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Factor 5 Test, Factor V Test

Stroke is a condition caused by the sudden blockage or diminished blood supply to a part of the brain.  This changes/affects body functions controlled by the part of the brain, hence reduced response or no response to stimulation at all. Stroke mainly happens when/if these brain cells do not get oxygen and nutrients made available by the fresh supply of blood. Body cells, and brain cells may get inflamed or even die if they do not get enough oxygen and nutrients, one of the reasons why stroke leaves one permanently disabled.  

Statistics show that more than 129,000 Americans die from stroke each year, with approximately 795,000 people suffering new or recurrent stroke annually. This makes stroke the 5th leading cause of death in the United States. 65% of all stroke-related deaths occur in women. In addition to causing long-term disability in most survivors, at least 25% of them are at risk of suffering another stroke within five years. 

Types of Stroke  

  • Ischemic: This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for more than 87% of reported cases. It is mainly caused by a blocked artery to the brain (thrombotic stroke). This can occur as a result of a blood clot in a narrow artery, or if the clot (in other parts of the body) breaks off and travels to the brain, commonly known as an embolic stroke. 
  • Hemorrhagic stroke: This type of stroke occurs when/if a blood vessel ruptures, causing breeding in and around the brain. This could be as a result of a head injury (from an accident) or aneurysms. Aneurysms occur as a result of high blood pressure or a genetic defect.  This is the most dangerous type of stroke, which almost always leads to death.  

Risk Factors 

The most common risk factors include: 

  • Diabetes mellitus  
  • High blood pressure  
  • Dangerously high cholesterol levels  
  • Age (seniors have a risk)  
  • Hereditary genetics  
  • Race (African Americans have a higher risk of stroke when compared to Caucasians)  
  • Sex (more men suffer a stroke as compared to women, while more women succumb to it quickly)  
  • Sickle cell anemia   
  • Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome  
  • Leading an unhealthy lifestyle (lack of exercise, drug abuse, and unhealthy eating habits)   

Signs and Symptoms

Most people will have one or more mini strokes, commonly known as TIAs (Transient Ischemic Attacks), before having an actual one. These mini strokes should serve as a warning and a reason to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Symptoms of stroke can be persistent, with TIAs fading off within no time. The most common symptoms of TIA or Stroke include:  

  • Severe, unexplained headache  
  • Trouble talking, sudden loss of speech, and difficulties understanding what is being said  
  • Sudden loss of coordination, balance, and trouble walking  
  • Paralysis of the leg, arm, or face (on one side of the body), sudden weakness and numbness 
  • Unexpected difficulties in seeing with one or both eyes and blurred vision.   

Tests  

Doctors mainly use non-laboratory testing for stroke diagnosis. These include several imaging tests, a neurological and physical exam. Researchers are, however, in the process of finding laboratory tests that could be used in stroke diagnosis, screening, treatment, and management. Stroke biomarkers may also come in handy in the future.  

Some of the feasible biomarkers that could be used in risk assessment include N-methyl-D-aspartate neuroreceptors (NMDAR), Lp-PLA2, and NT-PRoBNP. Antibodies to metalloproteinases (MMPs) and NR2A/2B are potential candidates for stroke diagnosis as well. A panel of biomarkers could be used in both risk assessment and diagnostic tools for stroke. All these are, however, in the research stage, hence, yet to be tested.  

Some lab tests may also be ordered to assess a patient’s risk. These include:  

More tests may be required to identify situations that could increase your risk. These include: