Ictus isquémico, infarto cerebral y ataque isquémico transitorio

Abstract

Ischemic stroke occurs as a result of focal cerebral ischemia. It is classified as cerebral infarction if consisten lesion is seen in neuroimaging or transient ischemic attack if clinical symptoms are transient and neuroimaging shows no ischemic lesions consistent with symptoms. There are five etiologic subtypes of ischemic stroke: atherothrombotic, cardioembolic, lacunar, unusual causes and undetermined origin. The diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke is mainly clinical and is based on the realization of an adequate anamnesis and clinical examination. Priority is the completion of a brain CT for diagnosis and indication for intravenous thrombolysis. Vascular studies are performed to assess the intra- and extracranial cerebral arteries in order to select patients for endovascular interventional treatment in the acute phase or to establish the indication of other invasive treatments in secondary prevention. The treatment shall be based on the cause of the stroke and also lead to the empowerment of a healthy lifestyle and optimal control of vascular risk factors.