ASCOD Algorithm for Ischemic Stroke
Assigns phenotype in patients with ischemic stroke of uncertain causes.
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Incomplete minimum work-up may prompt further diagnostic testing listed in scoring criteria.
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Potential causal disease mechanisms should be treated according to current evidence-based guidelines for secondary stroke prevention.
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Multiple potentially causal disease mechanisms should all be considered for treatment.
Management is dependent on identified mechanism(s), and may include anticoagulation, anti-thrombotics, high-intensity anti-lipids, blood pressure and glycemic control, carotid endarterectomy, and/or atrial septal defect repair.
ASCOD addresses underlying ischemic stroke mechanisms, not all aspects of post-stroke care, which can include rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech language therapy.