The Pharmacology of Thrombolytic and Fibrinogen-Depleting Agents in the Treatment of Acute Ischaemic Stroke<footref rid="foot01">¹</footref>

In ischaemic stroke, the common pathology of a fibrin-rich thrombus or embolus has led to the concept of acute treatment aimed at preserving the ischaemic penumbra. This is the brain tissue surrounding the area of developing infarction which is threatened but which is still viable, particularly if the clot is either removed, its progression reduced, or if the blood flow from collateral vessels in the surrounding area is increased. The aim of acute antithrombotic or rheological treatment is therefore to reduce the volume of infarction.