Introduction

Transient ischaemic attack is part of a patho-physiological continuum of cerebrovascular disease.

An acute TIA is the clinical consequence of an interruption of the blood supply to a focal part of the brain with consequent disruption of function. In TIA this disruption is temporary.

Main causes of TIA

TIAs result from one of three main aetiologies:

• Large artery atherosclerotic infarction e.g. carotid artery disease
• Small vessel disease e.g. striate arteries
• Embolism from a cardiac source e.g. left atrial appendage in atrial fibrillation

Other causes of TIA

Other causes can include:

• Dissection
• Hypercoagulable states
• Sickle cell

In some patients, the aetiology is undetermined.

The neurological symptoms and signs will reflect which vascular territory has been affected.