COMPARATIVE DIAGNOSTIC VALUE OF CT AND MRI IN THE DETECTION OF ISCHEMIC STROKE

Abstract

Ischemic stroke remains one of the leading causes of mortality and long-term disability worldwide. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for timely therapeutic interventions, including thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy. Neuroimaging plays a pivotal role in the diagnostic pathway of acute ischemic stroke. Computed Tomography (CT) is widely available and allows rapid exclusion of intracranial hemorrhage, whereas Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), particularly diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), offers higher sensitivity for detecting early ischemic changes. Comparative evaluation of these imaging modalities is essential for optimizing diagnostic strategies and improving patient outcomes.