CATEGORY

This is the second edition of a succinct, evidence-based source of answers to questions commonly asked by general practitioners about stroke including definitions, epidemiology, causes, clinical features, investigations, management, outcome and secondary prevention. It is divided into sixteen chapters, each with a list of relevant key references for further reading. The first two chapters define what is meant by a stroke and the size of a problem for stroke patients, their carers and the community. Chapters 3-15 address, in turn, the five key questions that should be answered in the diagnosis and management of all stroke patients:
1. Is it a stroke? 2. Where is the stroke lesion? 3. What is the cause of the stroke? 4. What is the prognosis for survival and handicap? 5. What can be done to optimise patient outcome and prevent recurrant stroke? Chapter 16 discusses stroke in special populations. The book concludes with appendices providing information on stroke organisations (including postal and internet addresses) and medical websites.