Stroke Types

Question 1

What is the difference between TIA and stroke?

Answer 1

TIA = no permanent damage. Follow up due to risk of future stroke.

Stroke = signs of infarction that are irreversible and cause brain dysfunction in specific areas.

Question 2

What is a total anterior circulation stroke (TACS)?

Answer 2

Large cortical stroke affecting areas of the brain supplied by both the middle and anterior cerebral arteries.

Question 3

What is a partial anterior circulation stroke (PACS)?

Answer 3

Less severe form of TACS. Only anterior circulation has been compromised.

Question 4

What are the criteria for a PACS?

Answer 4

2 out of these:

• Unilateral weakness (and/or sensory deficit) of the face, arm and leg.
• Homonymous hemianopia
• Higher cerebral dysfunction (dysphasia, visuospatial disorder)

Question 5

What is the criteria for TACS?

Answer 5

All 3 of:

• Unilateral weakness (and/or sensory deficit) of the face, arm and leg.
• Homonymous hemianopia
• Higher cerebral dysfunction (dysphasia, visuospatial disorder)

Question 6

What is a posterior circulation stroke?

Answer 6

Damage to the area of the brain supplied by the posterior circulation e.g. cerebellum and brainstem.

Question 7

What are the features of posterior circulation stroke?

Answer 7

Requires at least one of the following:
* Cranial nerve palsy and a contralateral sensory/motor defect.
* Bilateral sensory/motor deficit
* Conjugate eye movement disorder (e.g. horizontal gaze palsy).
* Cerebellar dysfunction (e.g. DANISH)
* Isolated homonymous hemianopia

Question 8

What are features of cerebellar dysfunction (DANISH)?

Answer 8

Diadochokinesis

Ataxia (sensory)

Nystagmus

Intention tremor

Slurred speech

Hypotonia