Infographic on The Critical Role of Etiologic Investigation in Acute Ischemic Stroke

10 Mar 2026

Behind the Clot: The Critical Role of Etiologic Investigation in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Infographic created in BioRender, C, A. (2025), © World Stroke Organization, sponsored by Bristol Myers Squibb and Johnson & Johnson

Introduction

Ischemic stroke is a heterogeneous condition with multiple underlying causes, each associated with distinct risk factors, mechanisms, and implications for secondary prevention. Accurate identification of stroke etiology is a cornerstone of effective management, as it directly informs diagnostic pathways, therapeutic decisions, and long-term prevention strategies.

To support healthcare professionals in understanding this complexity, the World Stroke Academy has developed an educational infographic titled “Beyond The Clot: Understanding Ischemic Stroke Etiology.” The infographic offers a clear, visual overview of the main etiological subtypes of ischemic stroke and highlights their relative contribution to global stroke burden.

Key educational themes

The major etiological classifications of ischemic stroke, including large artery atherosclerosis, cardioembolic stroke, small vessel disease, and less common or undetermined causes
The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms associated with each stroke subtype
The clinical relevance of etiological classification for diagnostic work-up and secondary prevention strategies
The importance of individualized management approaches based on stroke mechanism

By presenting essential concepts in a concise and accessible format, the infographic aims to reinforce foundational knowledge and support a structured approach to stroke classification in clinical practice. This educational resource is designed to complement existing classification systems and guidelines, while encouraging ongoing education in an area that remains critical to improving patient outcomes.

Educational grant disclosure

This infographic was sponsored by Bristol Myers Squibb and Johnson & Johnson.