Using the ABCD Score to Assess Mini Stroke in Emergency Room
Recent studies have proven that for some patients, there can be a high risk of a major stroke (ischaemic stroke) within hours or days following a mini stroke (transient ischaemic attack, TIA). Thankfully, doctors are more frequently relying on a simple but effective system to assess short-term risk of a serious attack following a mini stroke. This is known as the ABCD score.
The ABCD Score, is an acronym that stands for age, blood pressure, clinical features and duration of symptoms predictive of stroke.
Mini Stroke
In 2004, a study completed by Deakin University in Melbourne evaluated 98 patients suffering from mini stroke, over a 7 day and 90 day period while assessing each one using the ABCD score. Patients who were determined to have an ABCD score greater than 5 were considered high risk. This translated to approximately 49% or 48 people in a high risk situation after suffering a mini stroke.
For clarification, a mini stroke is identical to a major stroke, however the symptoms and effects dissipate within 24 hours, with no lasting brain damage. It is an extremely serious condition and cannot be ignored, with a third of major stroke patients having suffered a mini-stroke prior. However, since stress can be a factor contributing to stoke, it seems only natural to determine the chances of a second attack and putting the patient at ease.
The group of 48 contained all four major strokes that occurred within seven days. It also contained 6 of 7 major attacks within 90 days.
The conclusion drawn: while the ABCD score is over inclusive diagnosing patients as high-risk after an occurrence of mini stroke; however, it is extremely effective and highly predictive. Being too careful is never a serious issue, and the ABCD score is a simple, effective and unique opportunity to prevent a major stroke after a mini stroke in a population of patients.
