ModuleDraft

Study module: ischemic stroke classification (TOAST-style) + workup mapping

Study module: ischemic stroke subtype classification framework (large artery, cardioembolic, small vessel, other, undetermined) and a practical ‘workup-to-category’ mapping to guide prevention thinking.

ClinicianClinicianAdvanced25 minClinical (pro)

Educational only

Educational only — classification is a clinical synthesis and may evolve with additional data.

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Classification should not delay acute care. If a patient has new or worsening neurologic deficit: activate local stroke alert/emergency response and proceed with urgent evaluation/imaging per protocol.

Key takeaways

  • List major ischemic stroke etiologic categories
  • Map common tests to etiologic categories
  • Explain how classification supports secondary prevention planning

Categories

  • Large artery atherosclerosis
  • Cardioembolism
  • Small vessel occlusion
  • Other determined cause
  • Undetermined/cryptogenic

Workup mapping

  • Vascular imaging → large artery
  • Rhythm monitoring/echo → cardioembolic
  • MRI pattern + risk factors → small vessel

Common pitfalls

  • Multiple possible causes
  • Incomplete monitoring

Practice check

What you’ll practice

These questions are untimed. After you answer all of them, you’ll see your score and a clear next lesson or reference step.

0 of 2 answered

Question 1

1. Atrial fibrillation most closely aligns with which etiologic category?

Question 2

2. Stroke classification can guide targeted secondary prevention strategy selection.

References

  1. Tier 1
    AHA/ASA 2021 Secondary Prevention Guideline (etiology and diagnostic evaluation)