This volume provides a comprehensive exploration of stroke, from basic mechanisms of disease to enhanced diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. The ongoing efforts within the neurological community are also highlighted, bringing a better understanding of the pathophysiological basis of this disorder. Clinicians will find invaluable information that can be used to enhance the lives of an aging global population. Covered topics include the functional anatomy of the brain itself, as well as advancements in the understanding of the biochemical background of strokes. Related fields and their dramatic impact on stroke research are also included, with findings in the fields of epidemiology, genetics, neuroimaging, and interventional radiology thoroughly explored. In addition, great attention is paid to therapeutic avenues, including investigation, prevention, and patient management. The third of three volumes on stroke in the Handbook of Clinical Neurology series (Series Editors: Michael J. Aminoff, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA; François Boller, Bethesda, USA; Dick F. Swaab, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Amsterdam, the Netherlands), covering investigation, management and therapy of stroke. Until a few years ago, strokes were considered experiments of nature that provided help in understanding the functional anatomy of the brain, but for which little could be done in terms of therapeutic intervention and prevention. These three volume record how this has now profoundly changed and cover advances in our understanding of the biochemical background of strokes coupled with advances in fields as diverse as epidemiology, genetics, neuroimaging, interventional radiology, surgery, clinical psychology and most particularly prevention and management. The aim is to provide both basic researchers with the foundation for new investigations and clinicians a source of reference to enable them to gain a thorough knowledge and understanding of the clinical features and management of the many neurological manifestations of stroke