- Atherosclerosis in large vessels can serve as source of emboli to smaller, distal vessels
- Can originate in aorta, vertebral-basilar system, other
- Typical cardiovascular RFs: HTN, hyperlipidemia, smoking, known atherosclerosis elsewhere, DM, male, age > 50
- Abrupt loss of focal neurological function
- Specific symptoms based on area of brain affected
- New, objective, focal neurological deficits
- Precise findings based on area of brain affected