Transient Ischaemic Attack

Question 1

epidiemiology of TIA

Answer 1

increasing prevalence/risk with age
4.2 % of population
M>W

Question 2

aetiology of TIA

Answer 2

Atherosclerosis, embolus, dissection, arteritis
(same risk factors as stroke/MI).
alcoholism?
hypertension
smoking
dyslipidemia
diabetes
obesity
stress
drugs
clotting disorders

Question 3

Pathongenisis

Answer 3

temporary reduction of Cerebral blood flow

without infarction due to thromboembolism or stenosis.

Question 4

natural history

Answer 4

transient/self limiting/recoverable
1/3 of people with TIA - stroke
permanent damage
death?

Question 5

manifestations

Answer 5

confusion,

problems with talking/walking

Question 6

symptoms

Answer 6

Identical to stroke = SUDDEN visual (monocular, hemianopia, diploplia), vertigo, unilateral weakness or paralysis, slurred speech, confusion, incoordination, sensory disturbances, nystagmus, aphasia

Question 7

Physical signs

Answer 7

depends on where the tia occurs

Question 8

Complications

Answer 8

recurrent TIA
1/3 develop stroke
sleep problems

Question 9

Prognosis

Answer 9

5% chance of stroke in 1 month, 12% in 1 year, 25% in 5+ years
complex - increased risk