[Neuroimaging and definition of transient ischemic attack].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Radiology
• Vascular Medicine

Background:

• Transient ischemic attack (TIA) serves as a critical warning sign for underlying cerebrovascular disease or systemic vasculopathy.
• Identifying tissue damage through neuroimaging is crucial for understanding the severity and implications of TIA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic role of neuroimaging in patients presenting with TIA.
• To assess the implications of positive neuroimaging findings in TIA management.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 66 TIA patients was conducted, reviewing clinical data, ABCD2 scores, and laboratory results.
• Neuroimaging, including computed tomography (CT) and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging with apparent diffusion coefficient (DWI-ADC), was performed.
• Statistical analysis utilized non-parametric tests and logistic regression to identify associations with positive imaging findings.

Main Results:

• Neuroimaging (CT and/or DWI-ADC) revealed acute ischemic lesions in 35% (23/66) of TIA patients.
• A 24-hour DWI-ADC follow-up was positive in 12 out of 35 patients.
• Positive neuroimaging was significantly associated with a family history of cardiovascular disease and prior TIA/stroke.

Conclusions:

• Approximately 35% of TIA patients exhibit positive neuroimaging findings, with DWI-ADC being particularly sensitive.
• Positive neuroimaging appears to be an independent prognostic factor in TIA.
• Early neuroimaging assessment, including DWI-ADC, is essential for accurate classification and prognosis in TIA patients.