ABSTRACT
Introduction The concept of a transient episode of neurological dysfunction caused by temporary ischemia in a focal area of the brain, spinal cord, or retina has been around since the 1950s. When the symptoms are recognized as warnings of an impending stroke, in many cases the stroke can be prevented. Therein is the importance of this topic. The pathophysiologic mechanisms, risk factors, and secondary prevention strategies for transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are the same as for ischemic stroke, and these are discussed in the chapter on secondary stroke prevention.
