Antithrombotic and Thrombolytic Therapy for Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke is a syndrome, and the optimal use of antithrombotic therapies for stroke treatment or prevention is guided by the specific pathogenesis (Figs 1–2). Patients who are at increased risk for ischemic stroke can be identified (Fig 3). atherosclerosis of the arteries, large and small, that supply the brain is the most common cause of ischemic stroke in North America and Europe. atherosclerosis of the proximal aorta is also a source of atherogenic brain emboli. Large artery atherosclerotic infarction occurs when there is an impediment to normal perfusion, usually caused by a severe arterial stenosis or occlusion due to atherosclerosis and coexisting thrombosis.