All::Neurology::Diseases::Transient ischaemic attack
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What is a transient ischaemic attack?
A brief period of neurological deficit due to vascular cause, typically lasting less than an hour.
Transient ischaemic attackWhat is the tissue-based definition of transient ischaemic attack?
A transient episode of neurologic dysfunction caused by focal brain, spinal cord, or retinal ischemia, without acute infarction.
Transient ischaemic attackWhat clinical features are typical of a transient ischaemic attack?
Sudden onset focal neurological deficit resolving typically within 1 hour, including unilateral weakness or sensory loss, aphasia or dysarthria, ataxia, vertigo, loss of balance, and visual problems such as amaurosis fugax, diplopia, or homonymous hemianopia.
Transient ischaemic attackWhat is the immediate antithrombotic therapy recommended for suspected transient ischaemic attack?
Aspirin 300 mg, unless contraindicated, in which case urgent management discussion is advised.
Transient ischaemic attackWhen is specialist review recommended for transient ischaemic attack?
If the patient has had more than 1 transient ischaemic attack ('crescendo transient ischaemic attack'), suspected cardioembolic source, severe carotid stenosis, or a suspected transient ischaemic attack in the last 7 days.
Transient ischaemic attackWhat investigations are recommended for transient ischaemic attack?
MRI, including diffusion-weighted and blood-sensitive sequences, and carotid doppler.
Transient ischaemic attackWhat secondary prevention measures are recommended for transient ischaemic attack?
Antiplatelet therapy (clopidogrel first-line, aspirin + dipyridamole for intolerance), lipid modification (high-intensity statin), and consideration of carotid artery endarterectomy in specific criteria.
Transient ischaemic attack