Errors in the diagnosis of stroke-tales of common stroke mimics and strokes in hiding

Abstract

Introduction: Stroke mimics are some of the common causes of misdiagnosis of stroke, with an attendant surfeit of finances and resources. Aim: We attempt to discuss some of the common neurological conditions mimicking stroke in the emergency. Methods: We reviewed the articles in English discussing stroke mimics in the last 5 years of publication. Purpose of the Review: We discuss the most common causes of stroke mimics encountered in neurological practice. In this short communication, we shall focus on the discussion of the diagnostic pitfalls and clinical clues that will help distinguish mimics from a true stroke.

Keywords

• epilepsy
• hemorrhagic stroke
• hypoglycemia
• ischemic stroke
• migraine
• mimics
• patent foramen ovale
• thrombolysis