Vascular Disorders: TIAs and CVAs

Flashcards covering the types, pathophysiology, symptoms, diagnostics, and treatments of Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs) and Cerebrovascular Accidents (CVAs) based on the lecture notes.

Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)

An infarction of brain tissue that results from a lack of blood, which may be caused by the occlusion or rupture of a cerebral blood vessel.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

A temporary localized reduction of blood flow in the brain that results in intermittent short episodes of impaired function which resolve without persistent neurologic deficits.

Thrombus (CVA Type)

Occlusion of a cerebral artery by an atheroma, typically characterized by a gradual onset and localized damage.

Embolus (CVA Type)

A sudden obstruction of a cerebral artery caused by a traveling mass (embolus) originating from a systemic source like the heart or carotid artery.

Hemorrhagic CVA

A stroke caused by the rupture of a cerebral artery, often due to severe hypertension, resulting in widespread damage and increased intracranial pressure (ICP).

Irreversible nerve cell damage threshold

The point reached after $5\,\text{minutes}$ of ischemia in brain tissue.

Central area of necrosis

The specific zone in a CVA where all tissue function is permanently lost.

Zone of inflammation

The area surrounding the central necrosis in a stroke that may regain function following healing.

NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS)

A diagnostic tool developed by the National Institutes of Health designed to assist with the rapid diagnosis of a stroke.

BE FAST

An acronym used for stroke identification: B—Balance, E—Eyes, F—Face, A—Arm, S—Speech, T—Time.

Development of paralysis in CVA

Characterized by an initial period of flaccid paralysis followed by the development of spastic paralysis weeks later.

Atherosclerosis

A predisposing condition for thrombus-related CVAs and a common cause of partial occlusion in TIAs.

Ischemic Stroke (Mechanism)

A type of stroke caused by a blocked blood vessel.

Hemorrhagic Stroke (Mechanism)

A type of stroke caused by a broken blood vessel.

Paresthesia

A sign of TIA often manifesting as numbness in the face.

Collateral circulation

A factor that may diminish the size of the affected brain area by providing alternative blood pathways.

Mechanical Thrombectomy

An intervention used specifically for the treatment of ischemic strokes.

Stroke Risk Factors (Lifestyle/Medical)

Includes diabetes, hypertension, systemic lupus erythematosus, sedentary lifestyle, and the combination of oral contraceptives and cigarette smoking.