Comparison of the European and Japanese Guidelines for the Management of Ischemic Stroke

Background: Different aspects of acute stroke management and strategies for stroke prevention derive from two viewpoints: specific traditional and historical backgrounds and evidence- based medicine from modern randomized controlled trials ( RCTs), meta- analysis and authorized clinical practice guidelines ( GLs). Regarding stroke, GLs have been published by national and international organizations in different languages, most frequently in English. Cerebrovascular Diseases published the European GLs for the management of ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attacks in 2003, with an update in 2008. At about the same time ( in 2004), the first Japanese GLs for the management of stroke appeared in Japanese. The first English version of the updated Japanese GLs was published only in 2011 and included differently approved drugs and drug dosages as compared with other American or European countries. Methods:in Europe. Conclusion: This brief survey - when compared with the lengthy original recommendations - provides a stimulating basis for an extended interest among Japanese and European stroke clinicians to learn from their individual experiences and to strengthen efforts for joint cooperation in treating and preventing stroke all around the globe. Copyright (C) 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel