19th July 2023

A 37-year-old man is admitted following a severe left middle cerebral artery ischaemic stroke.

A 37-year-old man is admitted following a severe left middle cerebral artery ischaemic stroke. He was treated with aspirin only. The day after admission you are called to the ward to assess him as he has become drowsy and has been vomiting.

Examination findings:

A: Airway is patent

B: SpO2 96% on room air, RR 13

C: Blood pressure 146/78, heart rate 96, regular rhythm

D: E3 V4 M4, pupils equal and reactive at 4mm, glucose 7.2

E: Temperature 37.2

What is the most likely complication?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.