FAST-AV or FAST-AB Tool Improves the Sensitivity of FAST Screening for Detection of Posterior Circulation Strokes

79·6 years (range 58‐99). The presenting features included limb weakness (48·5%), speech abnormality (45·7%), facial weakness (22·8%), disturbed consciousness (11·4%), collapse (11·4%), visual disturbance (8·6%), dizziness (8·6%), confusion (5·7%), incoordination/ataxia (5·7%), and paraesthesia (2·9%). The FAST screening was documented for 85·7% of patients by paramedics but ROSIER was not recorded in A&E (Accident & Emergency Department) or medical notes. FAST was positive in 24 (68·5%) patients, while 11 (31·4%) were FAST negative. Among FAST negative patients, three presented with ataxia and two with blurred vision. Therefore, FAST-AV or FAST-ABscreeningwouldhavebeenpositive in 29/35 (83·8%) of the patients, 14% more than when using FAST tool alone. Therefore, we believe that the addition of AV or AB to the FAST tool would certainly increase its sensitivity for early recognition of strokes (or transient ischemic attacks) affecting the posterior circulation. Larger prospective studies are needed.