A patient experiencing a brief episode of neurological deficits that resolves in under 12 hours is most likely diagnosed with what condition?

• A. Stroke
• B. Transient ischemic attack
• C. Concussion
• D. Complex partial seizure

Answer: (B)

The condition described is a transient ischemic attack (TIA), characterized by temporary neurological deficits that resolve within 24 hours, and often within minutes to hours. A TIA results from a temporary reduction in blood flow to the brain, leading to symptoms similar to those of a stroke, such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking. However, unlike a full-blown stroke, the symptoms of a TIA resolve completely and quickly, typically in under 12 hours. This resolution of symptoms is a hallmark feature that distinguishes it from other neurological events.

In contrast, a stroke generally results in persistent neurological deficits that do not resolve quickly. A concussion primarily involves a traumatic brain injury and symptoms such as headache or confusion that may last longer and are not characterized solely by transient neurological deficits. A complex partial seizure involves specific seizure activity that can also lead to disturbances in consciousness, but it does not align with the characteristic rapid recovery seen in TIA. Therefore, the brief episode of deficits resolving in under 12 hours is most indicative of a transient ischemic attack.