Abstract

CLINICAL PROFILE AND PRESCRIPTION PATTERN IN ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

P. S. K. Suhil Azmi*, J. N. Suresh Kumar, Y. Lakshmi Manasa, Sk. Rahil ur Rehman, K. Gopal Krishna, B. Vamsi Nayak

Abstract

Background: Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS) is a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide, primarily caused by the obstruction of cerebral blood flow due to thrombotic or embolic occlusion. AIS require immediate medical intervention to minimize neurological damage and improve patient outcomes. In developing countries, stroke incidence is increasing due to lifestyle changes, aging populations and rising prevalence of hypertension and diabetes mellitus. However, disparities exist in stroke management due to variations in healthcare infrastructure, access to thrombolysis and adherence to treatment protocols. Several studies emphasize the importance of early intervention, particularly intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) within the golden window of 4.5 hours. Despite these advances, many patients fail to receive timely treatment due to delayed hospital arrival and lack of awareness. Identifying the clinical profile and prescription patterns of AIS patients can provide insights into existing gaps in stroke care and inform strategies to improve management and prognosis.

Keywords: Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS), Transient Ischemic Attack, Tissue Plasminogen Activator (tPA), Intravenous Thrombolysis (IVT), National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA), Modified Rankin Scale (mRS), Dual Anti platelet Th