Management of acute ischemic stroke

Stroke is a major cause of mortality and morbidity, and thrombolysis has served as a catalyst for major changes in the management of acute ischaemic stroke. Intravenous alteplase (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator) is the only approved thrombolytic agent at present indicated for acute ischaemic stroke. Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) therapy is effective in reducing early and long-term neurologic disabilities if it is started quickly. This article summarizes the recent advances in thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke.