Which type of ischemic stroke accounts for 48% of all strokes?

Thrombotic stroke accounts for a significant proportion of ischemic strokes, specifically around 48% of all strokes. This type occurs when a blood clot forms in an artery that supplies blood to the brain, often resulting from atherosclerosis, where arteries are narrowed due to the buildup of fatty deposits. The clot blocks blood flow, leading to brain tissue damage in the affected area.

Understanding the prevalence and characteristics of thrombotic strokes is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. Recognizing that this type of stroke is primarily associated with underlying vascular disease emphasizes the importance of managing risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

In contrast, an embolic stroke, which occurs due to a clot that travels from another part of the body and lodges in a brain artery, accounts for a smaller portion. Lacunar strokes are related to small vessel diseases and are less common. Subarachnoid hemorrhage, while serious, refers to bleeding in the subarachnoid space and is not categorized as an ischemic stroke. Thus, the prominence of thrombotic strokes highlights their significant impact on the overall incidence of strokes.