Shared pathophysiology: Understanding stroke and Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease and stroke share several known vascular risk factors. The pathophysiology and whether one predisposes to the other is a topic of ongoing investigation. In this critical review, we highlight what is known about each pathway and the shared potential mechanisms. We offer insight into topics that warrant further investigation. We address topics of both neurodegeneration and secondary cascades. Furthermore, the concept of targeting secondary mechanisms early might be a viable treatment option for ongoing preventative measures. The review is intended to serve as a catalyst for further scientific inquiry into this important topic.