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Transient ischaemic attack — DGM MCQ

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ModerateStroke and rehabilitationTransient ischaemic attackDGM

An 82-year-old woman has sudden right arm weakness and expressive dysphasia lasting 25 minutes. She is now back to baseline. She has atrial fibrillation and blood pressure is 168/92 mmHg. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Transient ischaemic attack

Sudden focal neurological symptoms resolving within minutes suggest TIA, particularly with atrial fibrillation. Migraine aura usually spreads gradually and often has positive symptoms, whereas this was abrupt loss of function. TIA is a medical emergency because early stroke risk is high.

Reference: NICE NG128