Abstract
Transient ischemic attack (TIA) represents one end of the spectrum of focal brain ischemia, the other being completed infarction or ischemic stroke. The evolving technologic advancements in neuroimaging continue to change and sharpen the definition, epidemiology, and management of TIA. As a powerful risk factor for ischemic stroke, TIA deserves widespread public and physician education, urgent attention and investigation, and rapid management. The recognition and treatment of TIA provides an excellent opportunity for stroke prevention that is often missed or poorly recognized among physicians.