Definition and Evaluation of Transient Ischemic Attack

Abstract

Abstract-Thishours of symptom onset, preferably with magnetic resonance imaging, including diffusion sequences; noninvasive imaging of the cervical vessels should be performed and noninvasive imaging of intracranial vessels is reasonable; electrocardiography should occur as soon as possible after TIA and prolonged cardiac monitoring and echocardiography are reasonable in patients in whom the vascular etiology is not yet identified; routine blood tests are reasonable; and it is reasonable to hospitalize patients with TIA if they present within 72 hours and have an ABCD 2 score Ն3, indicating high risk of early recurrence, or the evaluation cannot be rapidly completed on an outpatient basis. Key Words: AHA Scientific Statements Ⅲ brain Ⅲ brain ischemia Ⅲ cerebral ischemia Ⅲ ischemia Ⅲ stroke Ⅲ transient ischemic attack Ⅲ acute stroke syndromes Ⅲ acute cerebrovascular syndromes R ecent scientific studies have revised our understanding of 3 key aspects of transient ischemic attack (TIA): how it is best defined, what the early risk of stroke and other vascular outcomes is, and how it is best evaluated. This statement reviews and synthesizes recent scientific advances regarding the definition, urgency, and evaluation of TIA and is designed to aid the clinician in the short-and long-term management of patients with TIA. DefinitionTIAs are brief episodes of neurological dysfunction resulting from focal cerebral ischemia not associated withThe American Heart Association makes every effort to avoid any actual or potential conflicts of interest that may arise as a result of an outside relationship or a personal, professional, or business interest of a member of the writing panel. Specifically, all members of the writing group are required to complete and submit a Disclosure Questionnaire showing all such relationships that might be perceived as real or potential conflicts of interest.This statement was approved by the American Heart Association Science Advisory and Coordinating Committee on January 16, 2009. A copy of the statement is available at http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifierϭ3003999 by selecting either the "topic list" link or the "chronological list" link (No. LS-2037). To purchase additional reprints, call 843-216-2533 or e-mail kelle.ramsay@wolterskluwer.com.Expert peer review of AHA Scientific Statements is conducted at the AHA National Center. For more on AHA statements and guidelines development, visit http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifierϭ3023366.Permissions: Multiple copies, modification, alteration, enhancement, and/or distribution of this document are not permitted without the express permission of the American Heart Association. Instructions for obtaining permission are located at http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifierϭ4431. A link to the "Permission Request Form" appears on the right side of the page.© 2009 American Heart Association, Inc. UrgencyLarge cohort and population-based studies reported in the last 5 years have demonstrated a higher risk ...

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