Secondary prophylaxis of stroke from a neurological perspective

Patients who have suffered ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) are at high risk of recurrent stroke, myocardial infarction or vascular death. Early pathophysiological based diagnostics and resulting secondary prevention are critical for reduction of stroke risk. Optimization of lifestyle factors, treatment of hypertension, cholesterol reduction with statins and use of antiplatelet agents in non-cardiogenic or anticoagulation in cardiogenic ischemia as well as internal carotid revascularization, in cases of more than 50% diameter stenosis of the internal carotid artery, are proven strategies for reduction of ischemic stroke risk.