Transient ischaemic attack

Question 1

Tool to predict stroke risk within 48 hours of a TIA

Answer 1

ABCD2 score (4 or higher means high risk)
Age > 60
Blood pressure >140/90
Clinical features
- unilateral weakness (2)
- speech impairment but no weakness (1)
Duration
- >60 minutes (2 points)
- 10-59 minutes
Diabetes mellitus - 1 point

Question 2

TIA presentation - indication for urgent hospital management (4)

Answer 2

• ABCD2 score >4
• atrial fibrillation
• crescendo TIA
• presence of carotid bruit

Question 3

What is a crescendo TIA

Answer 3

2 TIAs in 1 week