Associations of hematological and biochemical markers with intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis in stroke-free populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

•Intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) is a major cause of ischemic stroke.•Levels of blood cell counts are associated with ICAS in stroke-free adults.•Higher levels of lipids and inflammatory markers are associated with ICAS.•Renal/liver function-related biomarkers are associated with ICAS.•These markers may help stratify stroke-free adults for risk of ICAS.