North Carolina Neurological Foundation

Dedicated to Empowering Lives For Those Affected by Neurological Conditions.

Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke results from interruption of cerebral blood flow due to thromboembolism or arterial occlusion. Clinical features include sudden-onset focal neurological deficits such as hemiparesis, aphasia, or visual field deficits. Pathophysiology involves ischemia-induced neuronal death, excitotoxicity, and inflammation. Diagnosis relies on neuroimaging, including CT and MRI, and vascular studies. Management includes thrombolysis, thrombectomy, secondary prevention, and neurorehabilitation; prognosis depends on infarct size, location, and speed of intervention.