Changes in CSF blood-brain barrier parameters in ischaemic cerebral infarction.

Total CSF protein and CSF/serum albumin and alpha 2-macroglobulin ratios as indicators of a disturbed blood-brain barrier were determined in 39 cases of ischaemic cerebral infarction proved by computed tomography (CT). About 50% of the patients had a barrier disturbance, whereat the CSF serum albumin ratio was shown to be the most sensitive parameter. A disturbed blood-brain barrier was more often found in cases of large infarction, as shown by CT, and occurred most frequently in the first 2 weeks of illness. No correlation was seen between enhancement in CT and disturbance of the blood-brain barrier.