Clinical diagnosis and stroke subtypes
Haberl, R.L.; Knoll, T.; Wimmer, M.
Zeitschrift für Arztliche Fortbildung und Qualitatssicherung 93(3): 169-174
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 1431-7621 PMID: 10412195 Document Number: 504823
Sudden focal neurological symptoms are caused by stroke in 95%, either ischemic or hemorrhagic. Diagnosis and onset of treatment has to be rapid because the tolerance of the brain tissue to ischemia is lower than in any other tissue. First priority has stabilization of vital parameters such as maintenance of high blood pressure, rehydration, oxygen supply and correction of hyper-/hypoglycemia. Of equal importance is the prompt imaging of the brain to differentiate bleeding, complete brain infarction and early ischemic signs--only the latter permitting recanalization procedures by thrombolysis in a narrow time window of three hours. Distinct etiological diagnosis by Duplex scanning and echocardiography usually follows. This information determines the stroke subtype and the choice of secondary prevention measures.