Primary Article
Stroke: Malignant and Benign Syndromes
Abstract
Treatment of cerebrovascular disease is faciliated by determining the clinical presentation (transient ischemic attacks, progressing stroke, and completed stroke), the anatomic area involved (disease of the large vs small vessels, disease of the carotid vs basilar vertebrae), and the etiology: occlusive (thrombotic or embolic) or hemorrhagic (subarrachnois or intracerebral) vascular disease. The anatomic localization is a guide to prognosis: Large vessel disease which is mainly carotid disease appears malignant, whereas small vessel disease is relatively benign. Treatment of occlusive cerebrovascular disease may be accompanied by malignant complications from the use of anticoagulants and carotid surgery, but this treatment may be indicated in some circumstances. Treatment of hypertension appears the single most important prophylactic measure in cerebrovascular disease. Other medical therapy, including low molecular weight dextran, aspirin, diet, avoiding smoking, and treatment of other diseases affecting cerebral has variable proof of effectiveness.This content is limited to qualifying members.
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