Prognostic indicators for mortality in transient ischemic attack and minor stroke

In a prospective study, 129 consecutive patients with transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and 80 consecutive patients with minor ischemic stroke, involving the carotid artery territory in both cases, were followed-up for six years from their inclusion during the period from January 1984 to October 1985. All patients were 40-80 years old at inclusion, the median age being 74 years in the TIA group and 76 years in the minor stroke group. Overall mortality in the TIA group was significantly higher than in the minor stroke group, [44%, (57/129) vs 20% (16/80), p<0.0006 after correction for age], and that in the general population of Malmo. Pre-existing vascular disease was slightly more prevalent in the TIA than in the minor stroke group [27% (35/129 vs 21%; (17/80), NS]