title: Emergency identification and treatment of acute ischemic stroke.
abstract: In this review we describe the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia and its implications for potential therapy. We summarize the results of recently completed trials of acute stroke intervention and explore some of the controversy surrounding thrombolysis for acute stroke. We also introduce the key concepts of neuroprotection and its therapeutic possibilities. Finally, we discuss the delays that may occur in the emergency evaluation and management of acute ischemic stroke and suggest some methods to expedite the process.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, USA. kasner@mail.med.upenn.edu
authors.forename: S E
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: Kasner
authors.forename: J C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Grotta
mesh_terms: D002545:Brain Ischemia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004638:Emergency Treatment; D006801:Humans; D010960:Plasminogen Activators / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013997:Time Factors; D010959:Tissue Plasminogen Activator / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D010960:Plasminogen Activators; D010959:Tissue Plasminogen Activator