If a patient fully recovers from facial droop and paralysis within 18 minutes, what is most likely their diagnosis?

A patient who experiences facial droop and paralysis that resolves within a short timeframe, such as 18 minutes, is most likely experiencing a transient ischemic attack (TIA). TIAs are characterized by temporary neurological symptoms that mimic those of a stroke but do not cause permanent damage. The key factor here is the rapid resolution of symptoms, which is typical of a TIA.

The brain relies on a constant supply of blood to function properly, and a TIA occurs when there is a temporary reduction in blood flow to a part of the brain, often due to a clot or blockage that dissolves, allowing normal blood flow to resume. This restoration of blood flow can lead to a full recovery of function within minutes to hours, making the initial symptoms transient.

In this scenario, the brief duration of the symptoms aligns with the nature of a TIA. Other options may involve longer-lasting effects or different mechanisms that are not consistent with such a fast recovery. Therefore, understanding the characteristics of TIAs helps in recognizing why this diagnosis is the most appropriate given the rapid resolution of the patient's symptoms.