Neurology & Stroke

Question 1

Define the term ‘stroke’

Answer 1

Stroke - a sudden onset of focal neurological deficit from a vascular cause

Question 2

Describe the classification and pathophysiology of stroke

Answer 2

Classification - ischaemic/haemorrhagic
Pathophysiology - blood clot stops flow of blood to area of brain/weakened or diseased blood vessel ruptures causing blood to leak into brain tissue

Question 3

List some risk factors of stroke

Answer 3

Unmodifiable - male gender, increasing age, family history

Modifiable - blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, smoking, alcohol, obesity

Question 4

Explain the terms ‘paraparesis’, ‘hemiparesis’, ‘monoplegia’ and ‘quadriplegia’

Answer 4

Paraparesis - weakness in both legs
Hemiparesis - weakness on entire one side of body (except face)
Monoplegia - paralysis of one limb
Quadriplegia - paralysis of all limbs and torso

Question 5

Discuss, in broad outline, current stroke treatment strategies

Answer 5

Ischaemic - thrombolysis (alteplase, tissue plasminogen activator)
Haemorrhagic - surgery (craniotomy, hydrocephalus shunt)

Question 6

List common upper and lower motor neurone lesion signs

Answer 6

Upper - increased tone, pronator drift, hyperreflexia, clonus, positive babinski sign
Lower - muscle wasting, fasciculations, increased tone