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Contraindications to IV Thrombolysis for Ischemic Stroke

Checklist of absolute contraindications to IV alteplase/tenecteplase.

Contraindications to IV Thrombolysis for Ischemic Stroke
Current intracranial haemorrhage or prior ICH
Ischaemic stroke or serious head trauma in prior 3 months
Intracranial or intraspinal surgery in prior 3 months
Intracranial neoplasm, AVM, or aneurysm
Active internal bleeding or GI malignancy/haemorrhage risk
Platelets <100k, INR >1.7, elevated aPTT, or DOAC within 48 h
Blood pressure >185/110 mmHg despite treatment
Blood glucose <50 mg/dL (2.7 mmol/L) and deficit resolves with correction
CT with extensive hypodensity (>1/3 MCA territory)
ResultNo absolute contraindication

No absolute contraindication identified; assess time window, deficit severity, and relative cautions.

Absolute contraindications
0

When to use

  • Rapid eligibility screen before IV thrombolysis in acute ischaemic stroke.

Formula

Any single absolute contraindication present -> thrombolysis contraindicated.

Pearls and pitfalls

  • Reflects AHA/ASA absolute contraindications; relative cautions still require individual judgement.
  • Does not replace confirming symptom-onset time window.

References

  1. Powers WJ, et al. 2019 AHA/ASA Guidelines for Acute Ischemic Stroke. Stroke. 2019;50(12):e344-e418.