Even low-risk suspected TIAs should have MRI scan: study

A detailed history and neurological examination are only 'partially helpful', authors say
Clare Pain
Senior man looking worried sitting in front of MRI scanner

Stroke neurologists’ diagnoses are wrong one-third of the time in patients presenting with minor neurological events resembling a transient ischaemic attack, an international study suggests.

The authors of the study, known as DOUBT, which included Australian patients, conclude it is important for even patients with mild symptoms suggestive of a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) to have an MRI scan to aid diagnosis.