[The history and social importance of cerebrovascular pathology].

In this work we present a study of the different conceptual, physiopathological, anatomical and clinical aspects that cerebrovascular pathology has had throughout history, from the early pre scientific beginnings of religious medicine, through the Renaissance period up to the Modern and Contemporary Ages. In the second part we emphasise its social importance and economic cost, and new methodologies are proposed for use in its study and pursuit. We also highlight the need for the creation of stroke units.