An 82-year-old female presents to the emergency department with the complaint of temporary loss of vision in her left eye. History reveals the patient had 5 minutes of visual loss and describes it as if a “shade” was pulled over her left eye. Past medical history reveals hypertension and diabetes. Neurologic and ophthalmologic examinations are normal. Which is the most informative study in assessing this patient?
- Angiography of the vertebrobasilar artery
- MRI of the brain
- CT of the head with contrast
- Carotid duplex ultrasonography
5.CT of the head without contrast
Explanation:
Carotid duplex ultrasonography or an MRA (magnetic resonance angiography) should be performed to assess the degree of carotid blockage. The percentage of blockage can help to determine if the patient should undergo intervention such as carotid endarterectomy.