Short-term prognosis after a TIA: a simple score predicts risk.

Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are ominous and call for acute interventions, including hospitalization. TIAs are defined by complete resolution of an acute neurologic deficit, but any amount of recovery is probably the most important defining feature and, paradoxically, is strongly predictive of a subsequent event. Most patients should be hospitalized after a TIA, to provide an opportunity to monitor, thoroughly evaluate, and treat conditions promptly if indicated.