2025/2026 - Neurology Essentials - Picture the Stroke: A Resident’s Crash Course in Neuroimaging

This course provides an in-depth overview of neuroimaging modalities, with an emphasis on their application in the diagnosis and management of acute and subacute stroke. It covers the principles and practical considerations of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including angiographic techniques (CTA and MRA), and perfusion imaging. The course also highlights critical radiological signs, stroke scoring systems such as ASPECTS, differentiation of ischemic from hemorrhagic strokes, and common pitfalls in interpretation. Practical case discussions illustrate real-world application and neurovascular emergency management.

Target Audience

  • Physicians
  • Residents

Learning Objectives

Learners will be able to:

  • Describe the fundamental differences, advantages, and limitations of CT and MRI modalities in neuroimaging, specifically in the context of stroke diagnosis.
  • Interpret key neuroimaging findings on non-contrast CT and MRI that distinguish ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, including recognition of the hyperdense MCA sign and evolution of blood over time.
  • Apply the ASPECTS scoring system to evaluate early ischemic changes on CT and understand its prognostic value for acute stroke management.
  • Understand the role and interpretation of vascular imaging (CTA vs MRA) and CT perfusion in stroke diagnosis and treatment selection.
  • Identify imaging features indicative of stroke complications such as cerebral edema, herniation, and hydrocephalus, and recognize emergent neurosurgical conditions on imaging.

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Course summary
Available credit: 
  • 1.00 Participation
Course opens: 
07/18/2025
Course expires: 
06/30/2026
Rating: 
0
Speaker(s)

Jiaying Zhang, M.D.

has no relevant financial relationships to disclose at this time.
Moderator(s)

Debra Chionis, MS, ACE-MES, ACSM-CEP

has no relevant financial relationships to disclose at this time.
Peer Reviewer(s)

Robert Fishman, MD

has no relevant financial relationships to disclose at this time.

Available Credit

  • 1.00 Participation
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