ABCD² Score for TIA
Predicts 2-day stroke risk after transient ischaemic attack. Guides urgency of investigation and admission.
Score interpretation
ABCD² 0–3: 2-day stroke risk ~1%
→ Outpatient TIA clinic within 24h; dual antiplatelet; statin; brain imaging; carotid Doppler
ABCD² 4–5: 2-day stroke risk ~4%
→ Urgent neurology assessment; consider same-day imaging; dual antiplatelet (aspirin + clopidogrel); admit or urgent outpatient
ABCD² 6–7: 2-day stroke risk ~8%
→ Admit; urgent MRI DWI; carotid imaging; consider heparin bridge if AF; urgent endarterectomy if significant carotid stenosis
Interpretation bands for the ABCD². Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Johnston SC, et al. Validation and refinement of scores to predict very early stroke risk after transient ischaemic attack. Lancet. 2007;369(9558):283-292.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Clopidogrel (Stroke/TIA Secondary Prevention) · Antiplatelet (P2Y12 Inhibitor)
- Dipyridamole (Secondary Stroke Prevention) · Antiplatelet — Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor / Adenosine Uptake Inhibitor
- Aspirin (Loading Dose) · Antiplatelet — ACS / Ischaemic Stroke
- Alteplase (tPA) · Thrombolytic — Ischaemic Stroke / Massive PE
- Edoxaban (AF Stroke Prevention / VTE) · Direct Factor Xa Inhibitor (DOAC)
- Dabigatran (Stroke Prevention — AF) · Direct Oral Anticoagulant — Thrombin Inhibitor
- Acute Stroke / TIA Assessment · NICE NG128; RCP Stroke Guidelines 2023
- Status Epilepticus (Adults) · NICE CG137; ESEM guidelines; RCP Neurology Guidelines
- Suspected Subarachnoid Haemorrhage · NICE NG228; RCEM 2023; AHA/ASA 2023
- Adult Head Injury · NICE NG232 (2023)
- Bell's Palsy / Facial Nerve Palsy · ENT UK 2017; AAN
- Vertigo Workup · ENT UK; NICE CKS
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.