Atherothrombosis: common factor in stroke, myocardial infarction and peripheral vascular disease

Thrombosis superimposed on atherosclerosis causes approximately 60% of all brain infarctions. Patients with atherothrombotic occlusion of the cerebral vasculature are also at increased risk for occlusion within other vascular beds, as is suggested by the presence of similar risk factors for occlusive disease in the cerebral, cardiac and peripheral circulation. Because of this, there is a need for treatments that address a single occurrence of atherothrombosis, such as occlusion of the cerebral vessels, but which also provide effective protection against other potential occurrences of ischaemia throughout the body. Antithrombotic therapy is a key aspect of secondary treatment for patients who have experienced brain infarctions. Secondary prevention of a recurrent cerebral infarct may thus constitute primary prevention for both heart disease and peripheral arterial disease.