Transient Ischaemic attacks in Saudi Arabia- A study of 106 cases

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to determine the patterns of transient ischaemic attacks [TIAs] as seen in Saudi hospitals as the data both on cerebrovascular disorders and TIAs are sparse in Arabian patients. All cases of cerebrovascular disease [CVD] admitted to two major hospitals in Saudi Arabia were reviewed and patients presenting with TIA or stroke preceded by TIA were included in this study. A total of 106 [10% of CVD] had TIAs 61 developed subsequent stroke including 28% of lacunar infarction-66% were in the 51-70 year age group and the malefemale ratio was 3.21. Frequency of arterial hypertension, Diabetes mellitus and ischaemic heart disease were similar to those observed elsewhere. However, only 4% had demonstrated carotid artery disease and 11% had associated atrial fibrillation. The pathophysiology of TIAs in Saudi Arabia could be different from the pattern in Western countries. Large artery disease may not be the major determinant. Small artery disease as well as cardiac embolism could play a greater role than in other places