Hypercoagulation
The utility of screening for factor V Leiden, protein C deficiency, antiphospholipid antibodies, or other thrombophilic states is unclear. Anticoagulation can be considered if a coagulation abnormality is found, and if anticoagulation is not used then antiplatelet therapy is recommended.
Bottom line
Maintaining a healthy stroke-free lifestyle after a stroke/TIA requires rapid identification of stroke risk factors. The 2014 American Heart Association/American Stroke Association secondary stroke recommendations including the use of antiplatelet agents, anticoagulation for patients with atrial fibrillation, control of hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, and other risk factors are important evidence-based approaches to decrease the risk of recurrent stroke.
Dr. Skolnik is associate director of the family medicine residency program at Abington (Pa.) Memorial Hospital and professor of family and community medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia. Dr. Mathew is a third-year resident in the family medicine residency program at Abington Memorial Hospital.