TIA

Question 1

definition of transient ischemic attack (TIA)

Answer 1

–acute, focal cerebral insufficiency lasting < 24 hours
–usually < 60 minutes
–no residual effects

Question 2

difference between stroke and TIA

Answer 2

stroke = neuro deficits lasting > 24 hours; can be seen on CT

Question 3

specifics for TIA

Answer 3

–males more common
–increases risk for stroke

Question 4

TIA presentation

Answer 4

–varies patient to patient, but recurrent TIAs normally similar
–onset and recovery abrupt
–symptoms are associated with location of defect
–follow a vascular line

Question 5

TIA (carotid area) symptoms

Answer 5

–weakness, heaviness in contralateral arm, leg, or face
–numbness
–dysphagia
–ipsilateral monocular visual loss

Question 6

dysphagia

Answer 6

difficulty swallowing

Question 7

ipsilateral

Answer 7

changes on the same side as the damage

Question 8

contralateral

Answer 8

changes on the opposite side of the damage

Question 9

vertebrobasilar area TIA symptoms

Answer 9

–dim or blurry vision
–vertigo
–dysphasia
–ataxia
–motor or sensory changes (ipsilateral face, contralateral body)

Question 10

diagnosis of TIA

Answer 10

–H&P (pattern, history, vascular problems)
–CT, MRI, or MRA (r/o hemorrhage, lacunar infarcts, or aneurysms)
–carotid doppler studies (carotid stenosis)
–echocardiogram

Question 11

treatment of TIA

Answer 11

–depends on etiology
–anticoagulation (ASA, clopidogrel, heparin/warfarin if cardiac involved)
–carotid endarterectomy with >70% stenosis

Question 12

purpose of carotid endarterectomy

Answer 12

removes plaque build up