What type of stroke is caused by a stationary clot blocking a cerebral artery?

• A. Hemorrhagic stroke
• B. Thrombotic stroke
• C. Embolic stroke
• D. Transient ischemic attack

Answer: (B)

A thrombotic stroke occurs when a clot, or thrombus, forms in one of the arteries supplying blood to the brain, effectively blocking the flow of blood and thus oxygen to that part of the brain. This type of stroke is often the result of atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, leading to blockage. The stationary nature of the clot is key in distinguishing thrombotic strokes from embolic strokes, which involve a clot that forms elsewhere in the body and travels to the brain, causing sudden blockage.

In contrast, a hemorrhagic stroke occurs due to the rupture of a blood vessel in the brain, leading to bleeding within or around the brain tissue. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a temporary episode of neurological dysfunction caused by a brief disruption of blood flow to the brain, often with symptoms resolving within 24 hours. An embolic stroke, as mentioned, involves a clot that moves through the bloodstream to the brain, rather than forming in place like a thrombotic stroke.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the symptoms and providing appropriate care in a prehospital setting.