Childhood arterial ischaemic stroke incidence, presenting features, and risk factors: a prospective population-based study

Optimizing Advanced Imaging of the Pediatric Patient in the Emergency Department: Technical Report

Advanced diagnostic imaging modalities, including ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging, are key components in the evaluation and management of pediatric patients presenting to the emergency department. Advances in imaging technology have led to the availability of faster and more accurate tools to improve patient care. Notwithstanding these advances, it is important for physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners to understand the risks and limitations associated with advanced imaging in children and to limit imaging studies that are considered low value, when possible. This technical report provides a summary of imaging strategies for specific conditions where advanced imaging is commonly considered in the emergency department. As an accompaniment to the policy statement, this document provides resources and strategies to optimize advanced imaging, including clinical decision support mechanisms, teleradiology, shared decision-making, and rationale for deferred imaging for patients who will be transferred for definitive care.

Paediatric stroke in the northern Spanish region of Aragon: incidence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Recent years have seen considerable changes in the prevention and treatment of acute ischaemic stroke in adult patients. However, the low incidence of paediatric stroke makes the development of specific guidelines more challenging. This study aims to clarify the situation of these children in our region in order to establish a regional protocol to improve the care provided to these patients.

METHODS

We performed a regional incidence study of pediatric stroke (≤ 15 years of age) in Aragon, Spain (1308728 population, 15% aged ≤ 15 years) between 2008 and 2019. Data were obtained from hospital discharge records, including deaths, from the regional health service of Aragón, according to ICD codes for cerebrovascular disease. We analysed demographic, clinical, diagnostic/therapeutic, and prognostic variables.

RESULTS

A total of 21 events were recorded: 8 ischaemic (38.1%) and 13 haemorrhagic strokes (61.9%). The mean age (SD) was 9.3 years (1.0). The sample included 12 boys and nine girls. No statistically significant differences were found between ischaemic and haemorrhagic strokes, except in the chief complaint (language and motor impairment in ischaemic stroke and headache in haemorrhagic stroke). None of the patients with ischaemic stroke received reperfusion therapies. Including the 3 patients who died during hospitalisation, eight patients (42.1%) had modified Rankin Scale scores > 2 at 12 months. Motor deficits were the most common sequela (n=9).

CONCLUSION

Though infrequent, paediatric stroke has an important functional impact. In Spain, Madrid was the first region to adapt the existing code stroke care networks for adult patients. In Aragon, this review has enabled us to work closely with the different stakeholders to offer a care plan for acute paediatric ischaemic stroke. Nevertheless, prospective national registries would be valuable to continue improving the care provided to these patients.

Optimizing Advanced Imaging of the Pediatric Patient in the Emergency Department: Technical Report

Advanced diagnostic imaging modalities, including ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are key components in the evaluation and management of pediatric patients presenting to the emergency department. Advances in imaging technology have led to the availability of faster and more accurate tools to improve patient care. Notwithstanding these advances, it is important for physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners to understand the risks and limitations associated with advanced imaging in children and to limit imaging studies that are considered low value, when possible. This technical report provides a summary of imaging strategies for specific conditions where advanced imaging is commonly considered in the emergency department. As an accompaniment to the policy statement, this document provides resources and strategies to optimize advanced imaging, including clinical decision support mechanisms, teleradiology, shared decision-making, and rationale for deferred imaging for patients who will be transferred for definitive care.

An international perspective on young stroke incidence and risk factors: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Stroke among younger age groups is increasing globally. While there is a focus on research conducted on people under 65 years who have had a stroke, there is a paucity of data on the incidence and risk factors of stroke among younger people (≤ 30 years). This scoping review examines evidence on incidence and risk factors for perinatal, paediatric and young adult stroke globally.

METHODS

The review was guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute's scoping review methodology. A systematic search was conducted on 23rd March 2022 across Medline Ovid, Embase, PsycINFO and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). The eligibility criteria included all study designs providing information on the incidence and risk factors of stroke among young people (≤ 30 years) in the last ten years.

RESULTS

A total of 5750 articles were identified. After screening, 471 articles (224 cohort studies (47.6%), 164 case studies/case series (34.8%), 35 reviews (7.4%), 30 case-control (6.4%) and 18 combinations of designs (3.8%) were included. There was data from 50 different countries, 199 studies were from high-income countries, upper and middle income (n = 38), lower middle-income (n = 39), low-income (n = 3) countries, international study (n = 7) and a further 185 articles did not state the country of research. Most of the studies (63%) focused on risk factors while incidence constituted 37%. Incidence data were reported heterogeneously across studies, leading to an inability to synthesise data. The three most frequently reported risk factors for perinatal stroke were infections, cardiac conditions, and intrapartum factors. Vasculopathies, infection and cardiac conditions accounted for most reported risk factors for paediatric stroke, while chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus, vasculopathies and cardiac conditions accounted for the most reported risk factors among young adults.

CONCLUSION

This review has highlighted different stroke risk factors for each age cohort of people under 30 years. The low number of epidemiological studies suggests that further research of this type is needed to fully understand the incidence and risk factors in young stroke. A standardised reporting of age groupings of incidence data is imperative to enable the comparison of data from different geographical locations.

Sex Differences in Prognosis of Childhood Arterial Ischemic Stroke: Results From Chinese Pediatric Ischemic Stroke Registry Multicenter Registry

BACKGROUND

Current studies on the impact of sex in the prognosis of childhood arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) are limited. We aimed to explore the sex differences in outcomes in patients with childhood AIS.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted using the prospective data from the Chinese Pediatric Ischemic Stroke Registry. Baseline characteristics between sexes were compared in the total population cohort, propensity score (PS)-matched cohort, and inverse probability of treatment weighting cohort. Multivariate logistic regression and ordinal regression were used to analyze the association of sex with outcomes. Mixed-effects regression model was applied to further analyze the improvement in pediatric modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores between sexes from 90 days to one year. Survival analysis was used to estimate the recurrence rates during the follow-up period.

RESULTS

A total of 468 patients were finally included. Multivariate logistic regression showed that there were no significant differences between females and males in achieving favorable outcome (odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.63 to 1.72), functional independence (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.59 to 1.63), or shift to worse pediatric mRS scores (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.59 to 1.17) at 90-day. Mixed-effects regression and survival analysis indicated that females and males exhibited comparable functional recovery from 90 days to one year and had similar recurrent risk during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

This nationally-representative observational study indicated that both male and female pediatric patients with AIS exhibited comparable similar clinical outcomes at 90 days, as well as similar improvements and risks of recurrence during the follow-up period.

Be aware of childhood stroke: Proceedings from EPNS Webinar

Childhood arterial ischaemic stroke (AIS) is a significant health concern with increasing incidence. This review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of childhood AIS. The incidence of childhood AIS is on the rise especially in developing countries, likely due to improved awareness and diagnostic capabilities. Aetiology of childhood AIS is multifactorial, with both modifiable risk factors and genetic predisposition playing important roles. Identifying and addressing these risk factors, such as infection, sickle cell disease, and congenital heart defects, is essential in prevention and management. Identifying underlying conditions through genetic testing is important for appropriate management and long-term prognosis. Clinically, distinguishing stroke from stroke mimics can be challenging. Awareness of important stroke mimics, including migraines, seizures, and metabolic disorders, is crucial to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate treatment. The diagnostic approach to childhood AIS involves a comprehensive "chain of care," including initial assessment, neuroimaging, and laboratory investigations. National guidelines play a pivotal role in standardizing and streamlining the diagnostic process, ensuring prompt and accurate management. Early intervention is critical in the management of childhood AIS. Due to the critical time window, the question if mechanical thrombectomy is feasible and beneficial should be addressed as fast as possible. Early initiation of antiplatelet or anticoagulation therapy and, in select cases, thrombolysis can help restore blood flow and minimize long-term neurological damage. Additionally, rehabilitation should start as soon as possible to optimize recovery and improve functional outcomes. In conclusion, childhood AIS is a growing concern. Understanding the increasing incidence, age distribution, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and management strategies is crucial for optimized management of these patients.

Acute management of childhood stroke

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this paper is to review recent updates in the acute management of childhood arterial ischemic stroke, including reperfusion therapies and neuroprotective measures.

RECENT FINDINGS

With the emergence of pediatric stroke centers in recent years, processes facilitating rapid diagnosis and treatment have resulted in improved implementation of early targeted neuroprotective measures as well as the increased use of reperfusion therapies in childhood arterial ischemic stroke. Retrospective data has demonstrated that alteplase is safe in carefully selected children with arterial ischemic stroke in the first 4.5 h from symptom onset, though data regarding its efficacy in children are still lacking. There is also increasing data that suggests that thrombectomy in children with large vessel occlusion improves functional outcomes. Recent adult studies, including the use of Tenecteplase as an alteplase alternative and expansion of late thrombectomy to include patients with large ischemic cores, also are reviewed along with limitations to application of the adult data to pediatric care.

SUMMARY

There have been significant advances in the hyperacute care of children with ischemic stroke and early diagnosis and targeted management are of the upmost importance in improving long-term outcomes.

Clinical and Imaging Clues of Arteriopathy-Related Pediatric Arterial Ischemic Stroke: A Single Center Experience

Background and Purpose

Arteriopathy is a common etiology for childhood arterial ischemic stroke (AIS). In this study, we aimed to address clinical, demographic, and neuroimaging characteristics and the reversibility of vasculopathy in patients with childhood stroke due to arteriopathy by classifying them according to Childhood AIS Standardized Classification and Diagnostic Evaluation (CASCADE) criteria.

Methods

We included 15 patients with AIS due to arteriopathy presented between 2013 and 2018. All patients were diagnosed and followed up using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies. All acute AIS patients were classified by acute CASCADE criteria (1-4). Moreover, each group was categorized according to the chronic CASCADE criteria, including progressive, stable, reversible, and indeterminate courses.

Results

In the study population, CASCADE 2 patients were the most common group, and basal ganglia involvement was the most common involvement in CASCADE 2 patients. Of CASCADE 2 patients, 71.4% received steroids, which was compatible with a favorable outcome. In the study, trauma was present in 33.3% of patients, 60% of which was related to CASCADE 4. In the control visit on month 24, there were neuromotor sequelae of 60%, including hemiparesis, facial paralysis, and decreased fine motor skills; furthermore, the recurrence rate was 20%.

Conclusion

We strongly emphasize that arteriopathy should be kept in mind in school-age children presenting with hemiparesis and headache. Moyamoya disease must be considered in the differential diagnosis with anterior circulation involvement, while focal cerebral arteriopathy (FCA) in patients with basal ganglia involvement was detected on MRI and dissection in the patients with a history of head-neck injury. We think that steroids have positive influences on neurologic prognosis in patients with FCA.

Integrative Approach for Rehabilitation of an 11-Year-Old Child With Bilateral Hemiplegia

Over 80% of stroke patients suffer from the most frequent form, ischemic stroke. It is rare in the pediatric age group, with an estimated frequency of 1.6 per 100,000 per year. In this case report, we reviewed a case of an 11-year-old female child with bilateral hemiplegia. Motor impairments are defined as weakness or paralysis on the opposite side of the body from the lesion (hemiplegia or hemiparesis). Complications and impairments include difficulty swallowing or eating, communication difficulties (both receptive and expressive), emotional changes, loss of bladder or bowel control, muscle and nerve diseases, and language, speech, and memory problems. A patient-centered approach to rehabilitation interventions was given. The patient's functional ability was greatly enhanced due to the physiotherapy rehabilitation we used. Effective rehabilitation has taken advantage of the brain's capacity for repair and recovery. A patient-centered approach to rehabilitation interventions promotes healing and independence through restitution, compensation, and prevention. Task-oriented training using motor learning constructs, coupled with exercise science, forms the basis of the intervention. Every outcome measure that was used showed improvement in the patient.

This infant is having a stroke: an illustrative case report

BACKGROUND

Paediatric stroke is a rare event, and timely intervention is required to minimise long-term disability, reduced quality of life and financial implications. Although reperfusion strategies such as thrombolysis and thrombectomy are now well established in the adult population, and paediatric consensus guidelines allow for reperfusion therapies in children, access is currently limited due to diagnostic delays. This challenge is partly due to the rarity of presentation, infrastructure and public awareness to support early diagnosis as exists in the adult setting. We use an illustrative case and literature to describe an achieved case of paediatric stroke within an Irish setting.

METHODS

We use the case of an 8-month-old male infant presenting with acute-onset left-sided hemiplegia to illustrate what can be achieved in an Irish setting.

RESULTS

Stroke was identified quickly following presentation, timely neuroimaging and multidisciplinary involvement with disposition to paediatric intensive care unit where thrombolysis was administered. Although the patient has some speech delay, he is recovering well with normal gross motor function.

CONCLUSIONS

Paediatric stroke care should be available to all children presenting with acute stroke symptoms; however, the rarity of the diagnosis would suggest a national strategy will be required to provide equitable care at a national level.

Mechanical Thrombectomy for Pediatric Large Vessel Occlusions : A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Acute intracranial large vessel occlusion (LVO) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality among children; however, unlike in adults, no clinical trial has investigated the benefit of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in pediatric LVO. Thus, MT remains an off-label procedure for pediatric stroke.

PURPOSE

To investigate the efficacy and safety of MT in pediatric LVO.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted in Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials databases. Studies reporting safety and efficacy outcomes for endovascular treatment of pediatric LVO were included. Data regarding recanalization, functional outcome, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and mortality were extracted from the included studies. Functional outcome was assessed with the modified Rankin scale (mRS). A fixed or random-effects model was used to calculate pooled event rates and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

In this study 11 studies comprising 215 patients were included. The successful recanalization rate was 90.3% (95% CI = 85.77-95.11%), and complete recanalization was achieved in 52.7% (95% CI = 45.09-61.62%) of the cases. The favorable (mRS = 0-2) and excellent (mRS = 0-1) outcome rates were 83.3% (95% CI = 73.54-94.50%) and 59.5% (95% CI = 44.24-80.06%), respectively. The overall sICH prevalence was 0.59% (95% CI = 0-3.30%) and mortality rate was 3.2% (95% CI = 0.55-7.38%).

CONCLUSION

In our meta-analysis, MT demonstrated a promising safety and efficacy profile for pediatric patients, with consistently high efficacy outcomes and low complication rates. Our results support the utilization of MT in pediatric LVOs; however, prospective studies are still needed to further establish the role of pediatric MT as a first-line treatment strategy.

Hematologic and Oncologic Emergencies in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: What Nurses Should Know

Most children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit with a new or reoccurring hematology or oncology diagnosis are at high risk for developing a hematologic or oncologic emergency. Although these children represent a low percentage of pediatric critical care admissions, their acuity is high, and their care is complicated and challenging. Nurses are an essential part of the interprofessional team of providers who care for these critically ill patients. Experience recognizing acute decompensation and excellent assessment and communication skills significantly improve patient outcomes.

Decompressive hemicraniectomy in pediatric malignant arterial ischemic stroke: a case-based review

PURPOSE

Malignant stroke is a life-threatening emergency, with a high mortality rate (1-3). Despite strong evidence showing decreased morbidity and mortality in the adult population, decompressive hemicraniectomy (DCH) has been scarcely reported in the pediatric stroke population, and its indication remains controversial, while it could be a potential lifesaving option.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We performed an extensive literature review on pediatric malignant arterial ischemic stroke (pmAIS) and selected 26 articles reporting 97 cases. Gathering the data together, a 67% mortality rate is observed without decompressive therapy, contrasting with a 95.4% survival rate with it. The median modified Rankin score (mRS) is 2.1 after surgery with a mean follow-up of 31.8 months. For the 33% of children who survived without surgery, the mRS is 3 at a mean follow-up of 19 months. As an illustrative case, we report on a 2-year-old girl who presented a cardioembolic right middle cerebral artery stroke with subsequent malignant edema and ongoing cerebral transtentorial herniation in the course of a severe myocarditis requiring ECMO support. A DCH was done 32 h after symptom onset. At the age of 5 years, she exhibits an mRS of 3.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric stroke with malignant edema is a severe condition with high mortality rate if left untreated and often long-lasting consequences. DCH might minimize the vicious circle of cerebral swelling, increasing intracranial pressure and brain ischemia. Our literature review underscores DCH as an efficient therapeutic measure management of pmAIS even when performed after a significant delay; however, long-lasting morbidities remain high.

The Positive Predictive Value of Pediatric Stroke Diagnoses in Administrative Data: A Retrospective Validation Study

Background

This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine the positive predictive value (PPV) of pediatric stroke diagnoses in the Danish National Registry of Patients (DNRP) and the impact of different stroke definitions on the PPV.

Methods

We included children registered with a stroke or stroke-related diagnosis in the DNRP between January 2017 through December 2020. Two assessors reviewed medical records and validated cases according to the American Heart and American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA) stroke definition. The level of interrater agreement was examined using kappa statistics. Validation by the AHA/ASA definition was compared with validation according to the definition in the International Classification of Disease 11th version (ICD-11) and the World Health Organization's definition.

Results

Stroke was confirmed in 120 of 309 included children, yielding an overall PPV of 0.39 (95% CI: 0.33-0.45). PPV varied across stroke subtypes from 0.83 (95% CI: 0.71-0.92) for ischemic stroke (AIS), 0.57 (95% CI: 0.37-0.76) for unspecified stroke, 0.42 (95% CI: 0.33-0.52) for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) to 0.31 (95% CI: 0.55-0.98) and 0.07 (95% CI: 0.01-0.22) for cerebral venous thrombosis and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), respectively. Most non-confirmed ICH and SAH diagnoses were in children with traumatic intracranial hemorrhages (36 and 66% respectively). Among 70 confirmed AIS cases, 25 (36%) were identified in non-AIS code groups. PPV varied significantly across stroke definitions with the highest for the AHA/ASA definition (PPV = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.34-0.45) and the lowest for the WHO definition (PPV = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.24-0.34). Correspondingly, the incidence of pediatric AIS per 100.000 person-years changed from 1.5 for the AHA/ASA definition to 1.2 for ICD-11 and 1.0 for the WHO-definition. The overall interrater agreement was considered excellent (κ=0.85).

Conclusion

After validation, stroke was confirmed in only half of the children registered in the DNRP with a stroke-specific diagnosis. Non-validated administrative data should be used with caution in pediatric stroke research. Pediatric stroke incidence rates may vary markedly depending on which stroke definition is used.

Acute recanalization treatments in postnatal paediatric ischaemic arterial stroke. Paediatric stroke code

In children, arterial ischemic stroke is a much less understood disease compared to in adults due to its lower frequency and different aetiology. However, it is also a serious disease, with a high incidence of severe and permanent sequelae that exceeds 50% of total cases. The acute management of postnatal arterial ischaemic stroke (MNAIS) has changed drastically in recent years, chiefly on account of recanalization treatments (thrombolysis and endovascular therapies). These treatments, which used to not be recommended in childhood, are increasingly implemented in everyday clinical practice. Although the evidence from studies carried out in children is not of high quality due to their retrospective design and the small number of reported cases, they support the hypothesis that these treatments are as safe and effective as they are in adults as long as appropriate eligibility criteria are applied and they are used within a certain time from the onset of symptoms (therapeutic window). This article reviews the acute management of postnatal paediatric arterial ischemic stroke based on the current scientific evidence. Since the efficacy of these treatments is highly dependent on their early initiation, a paediatric stroke code needs to be in place as an extension of the stroke code applied to adults. It has started to be introduced in Spain since 2019, although there are still large areas of the country where it has yet to be applied.

Pediatric Interventional Neuroradiology

Pediatric neurovascular disorders can lead to substantial mortality and morbidity if not diagnosed early and adequately managed. Children with neurovascular diseases cannot be treated as small adults as the vascular and central nervous system anatomy, physiology, and pathologies in children differ greatly from those of adults. In addition, some neurovascular pathologies are seen exclusively in children such as aneurysmal malformation of the vein of Galen, pial fistulas, and dural fistulas in the context of dural sinus disease. In this review, we aim to present an overview of the common pediatric neurovascular diseases along with their endovascular management.

Lipoprotein (a): Does It Play a Role in Pediatric Ischemic Stroke and Thrombosis?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The goal of this paper is to describe the current understanding of lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)), clinical practice guidelines, and the potential pathophysiological mechanisms that appear to increase the risk of cardiovascular and thromboembolic events, specifically within the pediatric population.

RECENT FINDINGS

The proatherogenic and pro-thrombotic properties of Lp(a) may increase the risk of atherothrombotic disease. In adults, atherosclerotic plaques increase thrombotic risk, but antifibrinolytic and proinflammatory properties appear to have an important role in children. Although it is not well established in neonates, recent studies indicate the risk of incident thrombosis and ischemic stroke are approximately fourfold higher in children with elevated Lp(a) which also increases their risk of recurrent events. Despite this higher risk, Pediatric Lp(a) screening guidelines continue to vary among different medical societies and countries. The inconsistency is likely related to inconclusive evidence outside of observational studies and the lack of specific therapies for children with elevated levels. Additional research is needed to improve understanding of the pro-thrombotic mechanisms of Lp(a), appropriate screening guidelines for Lp(a) in the pediatric population, and to elucidate the short and long term effects of elevated Lp(a) on the risk of pediatric thrombosis and stroke.

Seizures in Pediatric Moyamoya: Risk Factors and Functional Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Children with moyamoya arteriopathy are at high risk for stroke and seizures. Risk factors for seizures and the impact of seizures on neurological outcomes in children with moyamoya are unknown.

METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective cohort study of children with moyamoya evaluated between 2003 and 2021. Functional outcome was assessed using the Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure (PSOM). Associations between clinical variables and seizure occurrence were assessed using univariate and multivariable logistic regression. Associations between clinical variables and final PSOM score were assessed using ordinal logistic regression.

RESULTS

Eighty-four patients met inclusion criteria, and 34 (40%) children experienced seizure. Factors associated with seizures included moyamoya disease (vs syndrome; odds ratio [OR] 3.43, P = 0.008) and the presence of infarcts on baseline neuroimaging (OR 5.80, P = 0.002). Factors associated with decreased likelihood of experiencing seizures included older age at initial presentation (OR 0.82, P = 0.002) and asymptomatic (radiographic) presentation (OR 0.05, P = 0.006). Both older age at presentation (adjusted OR [AOR] 0.80, P = 0.004) and incidental radiographic presentation (AOR 0.06, P = 0.022) remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders. Seizures were associated with worse functional outcomes as assessed by the PSOM (regression coefficient 2.03, P < 0.001). This association remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders (adjusted regression coefficient 1.54, P = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

Younger age and symptomatic presentation are associated with increased likelihood of seizures among children with moyamoya. Seizures are associated with worse functional outcomes. Prospective studies should clarify how seizures impact outcomes and how effective seizure treatment modifies this relationship.

Neurological manifestations of COVID-19 in adults and children

Different neurological manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in adults and children and their impact have not been well characterized. We aimed to determine the prevalence of neurological manifestations and in-hospital complications among hospitalized COVID-19 patients and ascertain differences between adults and children. We conducted a prospective multicentre observational study using the International Severe Acute Respiratory and emerging Infection Consortium (ISARIC) cohort across 1507 sites worldwide from 30 January 2020 to 25 May 2021. Analyses of neurological manifestations and neurological complications considered unadjusted prevalence estimates for predefined patient subgroups, and adjusted estimates as a function of patient age and time of hospitalization using generalized linear models. Overall, 161 239 patients (158 267 adults; 2972 children) hospitalized with COVID-19 and assessed for neurological manifestations and complications were included. In adults and children, the most frequent neurological manifestations at admission were fatigue (adults: 37.4%; children: 20.4%), altered consciousness (20.9%; 6.8%), myalgia (16.9%; 7.6%), dysgeusia (7.4%; 1.9%), anosmia (6.0%; 2.2%) and seizure (1.1%; 5.2%). In adults, the most frequent in-hospital neurological complications were stroke (1.5%), seizure (1%) and CNS infection (0.2%). Each occurred more frequently in intensive care unit (ICU) than in non-ICU patients. In children, seizure was the only neurological complication to occur more frequently in ICU versus non-ICU (7.1% versus 2.3%, P < 0.001). Stroke prevalence increased with increasing age, while CNS infection and seizure steadily decreased with age. There was a dramatic decrease in stroke over time during the pandemic. Hypertension, chronic neurological disease and the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were associated with increased risk of stroke. Altered consciousness was associated with CNS infection, seizure and stroke. All in-hospital neurological complications were associated with increased odds of death. The likelihood of death rose with increasing age, especially after 25 years of age. In conclusion, adults and children have different neurological manifestations and in-hospital complications associated with COVID-19. Stroke risk increased with increasing age, while CNS infection and seizure risk decreased with age.

Hemorrhagic Conversion of Acute Ischemic Stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide; a serious complication of ischemic stroke is hemorrhagic transformation. Current treatment of acute ischemic stroke includes endovascular thrombectomy and thrombolytic therapy. Both of these treatment options are linked with increased risks of hemorrhagic conversion. The diagnosis and timely management of patients with hemorrhagic conversion is critically important to patient outcomes. This review aims to discuss hemorrhagic conversion of acute ischemic stroke including discussion of the pathophysiology, review of risk factors, imaging considerations, and treatment of patients with hemorrhagic conversion.

Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pediatric Arterial Ischemic Stroke

Though rare, stroke in infants and children is an important cause of mortality and chronic morbidity in the pediatric population. Neuroimaging advances and implementation of pediatric stroke care protocols have led to the ability to rapidly diagnose stroke and in many cases determine the stroke etiology. Though data on efficacy of hyperacute therapies, such as intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy, in pediatric stroke are limited, feasibility and safety data are mounting and support careful consideration of these treatments for childhood stroke. Recent therapeutic advances allow for targeted stroke prevention efforts in high-risk conditions, such as moyamoya, sickle cell disease, cardiac disease, and genetic disorders. Despite these exciting advances, important knowledge gaps persist, including optimal dosing and type of thrombolytic agents, inclusion criteria for mechanical thrombectomy, the role of immunomodulatory therapies for focal cerebral arteriopathy, optimal long-term antithrombotic strategies, the role of patent foramen ovale closure in pediatric stroke, and optimal rehabilitation strategies after stroke of the developing brain.

Acute triage of childhood stroke in Denmark

Objective:

This 2-year observational study aimed to test the feasibility of implementing a pediatric stroke triage-setup that connected frontline providers with vascular neurologists and to examine final diagnoses in children triaged for suspected stroke.

Methods:

Prospective, consecutive registration of children with suspected stroke triaged by a team of vascular neurologists from Jan 1st, 2020 and through Dec 2021, Eastern Denmark (census 530,000 children). Based on the provided clinical information, the children were triaged to either assessment at the Comprehensive Stroke Center (CSC) in Copenhagen or to a pediatric department. All included children were retrospectively followed-up for clinical presentations and final diagnosis.

Results:

A total of 163 children with 166 suspected stroke events were triaged by the vascular neurologists. Cerebrovascular disease was present in 15 (9.0%) suspected stroke events; one child had intracerebral hemorrhage, one had subarachnoid hemorrhage, two children presented with three TIA events and nine children presented with 10 ischemic stroke events. Two children with ischemic stroke were eligible for acute revascularization treatment of which both were triaged to the CSC. The sensitivity of the triage by acute revascularization indication was 1.00 (95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.15–1.00) and specificity 0.65 (95% CI: 0.57–0.73). Non-stroke neurological emergencies were present in 34 (20.5%) children, including seizures in 18 (10.8%) and acute demyelinating disorders in 7 (4.2%).

Conclusion:

Implementing regional triage-setup that connected frontline providers to vascular neurologists was feasible; this system was activated for the majority of children with ischemic stroke according to an expected incidence and led to identification of children eligible for revascularization treatments.

Imaging of Suspected Stroke in Children, From the AJR Special Series on Emergency Radiology

Pediatric stroke encompasses different causes, clinical presentations, and associated conditions across ages. Although it is relatively uncommon, pediatric stroke presents with poor short- and long-term outcomes in many cases. Because of a wide range of overlapping presenting symptoms between pediatric stroke and other more common conditions, such as migraine and seizures, stroke diagnosis can be challenging or delayed in children. When combined with a comprehensive medical history and physical examination, neuroimaging plays a crucial role in diagnosing stroke and differentiating stroke mimics. This review highlights the current neuroimaging workup for diagnosing pediatric stroke in the emergency department, describes advantages and disadvantages of different imaging modalities, highlights disorders that predispose children to infarct or hemorrhage, and presents an overview of stroke mimics. Key differences in the initial approach to suspected stroke between children and adults are also discussed.

Internal Carotid Artery Dissection With Thrombosis in a Child With Prothrombin Gene Mutation

Prothrombin gene mutation (prothrombin thrombophilia) is an inherited disorder that increases the risk of venous thrombosis. However, limited data exist on the risk of arterial stroke in an at-risk population. Several meta-analyses report slightly increased risk in specific populations. We report a 10-year-old Hispanic girl who presented to the emergency department with a seizure. This seizure occurred five days after she tripped and fell without any initial associated symptoms. She had left-sided hemiparesis on physical examination after the seizure. Imaging revealed internal carotid artery (ICA) dissection with thrombus, right caudate nucleus and putamen infarcts, and ischemic penumbra. She subsequently had an endovascular thrombectomy of the right ICA with reperfusion. Genetic testing showed a prothrombin gene mutation (G20210A). Prothrombin gene mutation was the most likely explanation for her stroke in the absence of a significant risk factor for arterial thrombosis or an underlying hypercoagulable disorder. Further investigations are required to determine the risks and evaluate the correlation between prothrombin gene mutation and ischemic stroke in children.

Neuromonitoring in Children with Cerebrovascular Disorders

BACKGROUND

Cerebrovascular disorders are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in children. The acute care of a child with an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke or cerebral sinus venous thrombosis focuses on stabilizing the patient, determining the cause of the insult, and preventing secondary injury. Here, we review the use of both invasive and noninvasive neuromonitoring modalities in the care of pediatric patients with arterial ischemic stroke, nontraumatic intracranial hemorrhage, and cerebral sinus venous thrombosis.

METHODS

Narrative review of the literature on neuromonitoring in children with cerebrovascular disorders.

RESULTS

Neuroimaging, near-infrared spectroscopy, transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, continuous and quantitative electroencephalography, invasive intracranial pressure monitoring, and multimodal neuromonitoring may augment the acute care of children with cerebrovascular disorders. Neuromonitoring can play an essential role in the early identification of evolving injury in the aftermath of arterial ischemic stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, or sinus venous thrombosis, including recurrent infarction or infarct expansion, new or recurrent hemorrhage, vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia, status epilepticus, and intracranial hypertension, among others, and this, is turn, can facilitate real-time adjustments to treatment plans.

CONCLUSIONS

Our understanding of pediatric cerebrovascular disorders has increased dramatically over the past several years, in part due to advances in the neuromonitoring modalities that allow us to better understand these conditions. We are now poised, as a field, to take advantage of advances in neuromonitoring capabilities to determine how best to manage and treat acute cerebrovascular disorders in children.

[Formula: see text] Executive functions and psychosocial impairment in children following arterial ischemic stroke

This study examined the executive function (EF) of children with a history of arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) and preserved intellectual abilities, with reference to age at stroke onset, lesion characteristics, language, and motor functioning. In addition, the associations between EF and emotional and behavioral functioning were investigated. A battery of standardized neuropsychological tests was administered to children with previous AIS aged 7-12 in order to assess EF, including inhibition, working memory, cognitive flexibility, and attention. Parents rated questionnaires regarding real-life emotional and behavioral functioning. Finally, clinical and neuroradiological data were also gathered. Thirty patients were enrolled. Eight children fall in the lower end of the normative range or below in more than half of the EF measures, with working memory, inhibition and cognitive flexibility equally impaired, and attention relatively better preserved. Larger lesion size and language deficits were significantly associated with higher EF impairment. Emotional and behavioral functioning was lower in children with weaker EF. Children with a history of AIS, even those with preserved intellectual functioning, have a high risk of showing poor EF, mostly regardless of clinical features or functional impairment. EF difficulties are in turn associated with emotional and behavioral problems. Therefore, a standardized evaluation of EF in this population is mandatory as part of the follow-up, in order to ensure an early intervention and prevent related difficulties.

Visuospatial processing skills following unilateral arterial ischemic stroke in childhood

Due to the rare occurrence of childhood stroke, its impact on later cognitive functioning remains unclear. While it is often assumed that children recover better than adults, recent studies suggest that childhood stroke can negatively affect a wide range of cognitive domains, such as attention, language, and processing speed, among others. We examined the effect of unilateral stroke on children's visuoconstructive ability and visual memory. Seventeen children with left- or right-sided arterial ischemic stroke were tested using subtests of the Hamburg-Wechsler Intelligenztest für Kinder and the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF). The ROCF was evaluated both quantitatively and qualitatively with the help of two separate scoring methods. We found that lesion laterality and age at stroke impacted childhood stroke patients' ability to recall certain elements of the figure. Regarding lesion laterality, left-sided stroke patients had more difficulties recalling internal details than right-sided stroke patients. In terms of age, patients with stroke onset before the age of 5 years remembered fewer structural elements than patients with stroke onset after the age of 5 years did. Moreover, the qualitative scoring method better differentiated between individuals and between groups than the more commonly used quantitative method. The results of this study not only highlight the importance of a qualitative assessment of the ROCF but could also aid clinicians in testing stroke patients more accurately and tailoring subsequent therapy to the patient's individual needs.

Lesion size and long-term cognitive outcome after pediatric stroke: A comparison between two techniques to assess lesion size

BACKGROUND

There is little consensus on how lesion size impacts long-term cognitive outcome after pediatric arterial ischemic stroke (AIS). This study, therefore, compared two techniques to assessed lesion size in the chronic phase after AIS and determined their measurement agreement in relation to cognitive functions in patients after pediatric stroke.

METHODS

Twenty-five patients after pediatric AIS were examined in the chronic phase (>2 years after stroke) in respect to intelligence, memory, executive functions, visuo-motor functions, motor abilities, and disease-specific outcome. Lesion size was measured using the ABC/2 formula and segmentation technique (3D Slicer). Correlation analysis determined the association between volumetry techniques and outcome measures in respect to long-term cognitive outcome.

RESULTS

The measurements from the ABC/2 and segmentation technique were strongly correlated (r = 0.878, p < .001) and displayed agreement in particular for small lesions. Lesion size from both techniques was significantly correlated with disease-specific outcome (p < .001) and processing speed (p < .005) after controlling for age at stroke and multiple comparison.

CONCLUSION

The two techniques showed convergent validity and were both significantly correlated with long-term outcome after pediatric AIS. Compared to the time-consuming segmentation technique, ABC/2 facilitates clinical and research work as it requires relatively little time and is easy to apply.

Temporal trends, clinical characteristics, and sociodemographic profile of post-neonatally acquired cerebral palsy in Australia, 1973-2012: A population-based observational study

AIM

To describe post-neonatally acquired (PNN) cerebral palsy (CP) in terms of temporal trends in prevalence, clinical and sociodemographic profiles, known causes and associations between causes, and sociodemographic variables.

METHOD

Numerator data, a count of children with PNN-CP confirmed at 5 years of age (n = 523), was drawn from two Australian state CP registers (birth years 1973-2012). Poisson regression was used to investigate temporal trends in the prevalence of PNN-CP by 5-year intervals, calculated per 10 000 live births. Using data from all state and territory Australian CP registers (n = 469), distributions of clinical characteristics, PNN-CP causes, and sociodemographic factors were tabulated (birth years 1995-2012). χ2 and logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations between sociodemographic profile, Australian reference data, and known causes.

RESULTS

A significant temporal decline in PNN-CP in Victoria (p = 0.047) and Western Australia (p = 0.033) was observed. The most common proximal causes of PNN-CP were cerebrovascular accidents (34%, n = 158), infection (25%, n = 117), and non-accidental injuries (12%, n = 58). Children born to teenage mothers, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander mothers, or children born in remote areas were over-represented in this cohort compared with reference data (all p ≤ 0.001). Infectious causes were strongly associated with teenage motherhood (odds ratio 3.0 [95% confidence interval 1.1-8.2], p = 0.028) and remote living (odds ratio 4.5 [95% confidence interval 2.0-10.2], p < 0.001).

INTERPRETATION

Although prevalence of PNN-CP has declined, the over-representation of priority populations, and the relative severity of a condition that is largely preventable, suggest the need for more specific primary preventive measures and support.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

Prevalence of post-neonatally acquired (PNN) cerebral palsy (CP) in Australia significantly declined between 1973 and 2012. Cerebrovascular accidents are the most common proximal cause of PNN-CP. Children born in remote areas are at greater risk of PNN-CP.

Neurological and Functional Outcomes after Pediatric Stroke

Pediatric stroke results in life-long morbidity for many patients, but the outcomes can vary depending on factors such as age of injury, or mechanism, size, and location of stroke. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of outcomes in different neurological domains (eg, motor, cognitive, language) for children with stroke of different mechanisms (ie, arterial ischemic stroke, cerebral sinus venous thrombosis, and hemorrhagic stroke), but with a focus on World Health Organization International Classification for Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF-CY) framework for measuring health and disability for children and youth. We describe outcomes for the population as a whole and certain factors that may further refine prognostication.

Management of Pediatric Stroke - Challenges and Perspectives from Resource-limited Settings

Childhood stroke is not as common as adult stroke, but it is underrecognized the world over. Diagnosis is often delayed due to lack of awareness not only by the lay public but also by emergency and front-line health care workers. Despite the relative rarity of childhood stroke, the impact on morbidity, mortality and the economic burden for families and society is high, especially in poorly resourced settings. The risk factors for stroke in children differ from the adult population where lifestyle factors play a more important role. The developmental aspects of the pediatric cerebral vasculature and hematological maturational biology affects the clinical presentation, investigation, management and outcomes of childhood stroke in a different way compared to adults. The management of childhood stroke is currently based on expert guidelines and evidence extrapolated from adult studies. Hyperacute therapies that have revolutionized the treatment of stroke in adults cannot be easily applied to children at this stage due to the diagnostic delays, diverse risk factors and developmental considerations mentioned above. Much has been achieved in the understanding of genetic, acquired, preventable and recurrent stroke risk factors in the past decade through international collaborative efforts like the International Pediatric Stroke Study. Evidence for the prevention and treatment of childhood stroke remains elusive. Even more elusive are relevant and achievable management guidelines for pediatric stroke in resource-limited settings. This narrative review focusses on the current management practices globally, emphasizing the challenges, and gaps in knowledge of pediatric stroke in low- and middle-income countries and other areas with limited resources. Priorities and some potential solutions at national and local level are suggested for these settings.

Pediatric vs. adult stroke: comparative study in a tertiary referral hospital, Cairo, Egypt

Background

Even though stroke is rare in children, it is associated with serious or life-threatening consequences. Despite its rarity, the occurrence of stroke in children has age-related differences in risk factors, etiopathogenesis, and clinical presentations. Unlike adults, who have arteriosclerosis as the major cause of stroke, risk factors for pediatric strokes are multiple, including cardiac disorders, infection, prothrombotic disorders, moyamoya disease, moyamoya syndrome, and others. The goal of the current study was to compare the characteristics, clinical features, etiology, subtypes, and workup of pediatric and adult strokes.

Methods

This was a hospital-based observational study conducted on 222 participants. All patients underwent a full clinical and neurological examination, full laboratory study, cardiac evaluation, and neuroimaging; CT scan, MRI, MRA, MRV, carotid duplex, and transcranial Doppler (TCD). Ischemic stroke (IS) etiology was classified according to the Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) criteria, the "proposed classification for subtypes of arterial ischemic stroke in children," and the Oxfordshire Community Stroke Project (OCSP). Stroke severity was determined by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and PedNIHSS on admission.

Results

The proportion of pediatric ischemic strokes in the current study was 63.4 percent, while hemorrhagic strokes were 36.5%. The majority of the adult patients had ischemic strokes (84.1%), while hemorrhagic strokes were noted in 15.8% of the patients. According to the original TOAST classification, in the current study, the etiology of pediatric IS was other determined causes in 63.6%, undetermined etiology in 27.2%, and cardioembolic in 9.0%. For the adult group, the major stroke subtypes were large artery disease, small vessel disease, cardioembolic, other determined causes, and undetermined etiology at 49.6%, 28.6%, 6.9%, 0.6%, and 12.5%, respectively.

Conclusions

There is a greater etiological role for non-atherosclerotic arteriopathies, coagulopathies, and hematological disorders in pediatric stroke, while adults have more atherothrombotic causes. The co-existence of multiple risk factors in pediatric ischemic stroke is noticed. Thrombophilia evaluation is helpful in every case of childhood stroke. Children who have had a stroke should undergo vascular imaging as soon as possible. Imaging modalities include TCD and Doppler ultrasound, CT, MRI, MRA, and MRV, and cerebral angiography.

Is the Early Diagnosis of Pediatric Stroke Possible in the Emergency Department?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Pediatric stroke is a neurological emergency. Knowing the predictive clinical markers for childhood stroke will help in early diagnosis and patient management. This study aims to (1) evaluate patients admitted to the pediatric emergency department (PED) with acute neurological signs and/or symptoms who underwent neuroimaging and (2) determine the clinical warning signs for the early recognition of stroke.

METHODS

One hundred one patients aged 1 month to 18 years who were admitted with stroke-related neurological signs and symptoms and underwent neuroimaging in the PED were retrospectively analyzed using the file record system. As a result of these imaging tests, the characteristics of patients with stroke and nonstroke were compared.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 92 included patients was 10.7 (SD, 4.5) years. Among the admission symptoms of the patients, a significant difference was observed only in terms of speech disorder, whereas a significant difference was found in the examination results for altered consciousness and dysarthria. The incidences of hemiplegia and hemiparesis were higher in the stroke group, but they were not statistically significant. The median duration of time from symptom onset to PED admission was 240 minutes (interquartile range, 30-1440 minutes). The mean time from PED admission to magnetic resonance imaging in the stroke group was 2.3 (SD, 0.7) hours, which was significantly shorter than for the nonstroke group (4.9 [SD, 1.2] hours, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Childhood stroke is a neurological emergency that requires a multidisciplinary approach. Early stroke diagnosis is vital for treatment and prognosis. With respect to sudden neurological deficits, particularly dysarthria, altered consciousness, hemiplegia, and hemiparesis, should alert clinicians to stroke. In addition, interdepartmental cooperation is essential both in the rapid recognition of stroke and the treatment and follow-up processes.

Neuroimaging in Pediatric Stroke

Pediatric stroke is unfortunately not a rare condition. It is associated with severe disability and mortality because of the complexity of potential clinical manifestations, and the resulting delay in seeking care and in diagnosis. Neuroimaging plays an important role in the multidisciplinary response for pediatric stroke patients. The rapid development of adult endovascular thrombectomy has created a new momentum in health professionals caring for pediatric stroke patients. Neuroimaging is critical to make decisions of identifying appropriate candidates for thrombectomy. This review article will review current neuroimaging techniques, imaging work-up strategies and special considerations in pediatric stroke. For resources limited areas, recommendation of substitute imaging approaches will be provided. Finally, promising new techniques and hypothesis-driven research protocols will be discussed.

Hemostatic and Thrombotic Considerations in the Diagnosis and Management of Childhood Arterial Ischemic Stroke: A Narrative Review

Although rare in children, arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) is associated with increased mortality and neurological morbidity. The incidence of AIS after the neonatal period is approximately 1-2/100,000/year, with an estimated mortality of 3-7%. A significant proportion of children surviving AIS experience life-long neurological deficits including hemiparesis, epilepsy, and cognitive delays. The low incidence of childhood AIS coupled with atypical clinical-presentation and lack of awareness contribute to delay in diagnosis and consequently, the early initiation of treatment. While randomized-clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of reperfusion therapies including thrombolysis and endovascular thrombectomy in appropriately-selected adult patients, similar data for children are unavailable. Consequently, clinical decisions surrounding reperfusion therapy in childhood AIS are either extrapolated from adult data or based on local experience. The etiology of childhood AIS is multifactorial, often occurring in the setting of both acquired and congenital risk-factors including thrombophilia. While multiple studies have investigated the association of thrombophilia with incident childhood AIS, its impact on stroke recurrence and therefore duration and intensity of antithrombotic therapy is less clear. Despite these limitations, a significant progress has been made over the last decade in the management of childhood AIS. This progress can be attributed to international consortiums, and in selected cohorts to federally-funded clinical trials. In this narrative review, the authors have systematically appraised the literature and summarize the hemostatic and thrombotic considerations in the diagnosis and management of childhood AIS focusing on the evidence supporting reperfusion therapies, relevance of thrombophilia testing, and duration and drug choices for secondary-prophylaxis.

Recanalization Treatments for Pediatric Acute Ischemic Stroke in France

IMPORTANCE

There is to date limited evidence that revascularization strategies are associated with improved functional outcome in children with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

OBJECTIVES

To report clinical outcomes and provide estimates of revascularization strategy safety and efficacy profiles of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and/or endovascular treatment (EVT) in children with AIS.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

The KidClot multicenter nationwide cohort study retrospectively collected data of children (neonates excluded) with AIS and recanalization treatment between January 1, 2015, and May 31, 2018. Data analysis was performed from January 1, 2015, to May 31, 2019.

EXPOSURE

IVT and/or EVT.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcome was day 90 favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale [mRs] 0-2, with 0 indicating no symptoms and 6 indicating death). Secondary end points included 1-year favorable outcome (mRs, 0-2), mortality, and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. Other measures included the Pediatric National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (pedNIHSS), with pedNIHSS 0 indicating no symptoms, 1 to 4 corresponding to a minor stroke, 5 to 15 corresponding to a mild stroke, greater than 15 to 20: severe stroke, and the adult Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS), which provides segmental assessment of the vascular territory, with 1 point deducted from the initial score of 10 for every region involved (from 10 [no lesion] to 0 [maximum lesions]).

RESULTS

Overall, 68 children were included in 30 centers (IVT [n = 44]; EVT [n = 40]; 44 boys [64.7%]; median [IQR] age, 11 [4-16] years; anterior circulation involvement, 57 [83.8%]). Median (IQR) pedNIHSS score at admission was 13 (7-19), higher in the EVT group at 16 (IQR, 10-20) vs 9 (6-17) in the IVT only group (P < .01). Median time from stroke onset to imaging was higher in the EVT group at 3 hours and 7 minutes (IQR, 2 hours and 3 minutes to 6 hours and 24 minutes) vs 2 hours and 39 minutes (IQR, 1 hour and 51 minutes to 4 hours and 13 minutes) (P = .04). Median admission ASPECTS score was 8 (IQR, 6-9). The main stroke etiologies were cardioembolic (21 [30.9%]) and focal cerebral arteriopathy (17 [25.0%]). Median (IQR) time from stroke onset to IVT was 3 hours and 30 minutes (IQR, 2 hours and 33 minutes to 4 hours and 28 minutes). In the EVT group, the rate of postprocedure successful reperfusion (≥modified Treatment in Cerebral Infarction 2b) was 80.0% (32 of 40). Persistent proximal arterial stenosis was more frequent in focal cerebral arteriopathy (P < .01). Death occurred in 3 patients (4.4%). Median pedNIHSS reduction at 24 hours was 4 (IQR, 0-9) points. Intracerebral hemorrhage occurred in 4 patients and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage occurred in 1 patient, all in the EVT group. The median mRS was 2 (IQR, 0-3) at day 90 and 1 (IQR, 0-2) at 1 year, which was not significantly different between EVT and IVT only groups, although different in initial severity.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The findings of this cohort study suggest that use of EVT and/or IVT is safe in children with AIS.

Comparison of Arterial Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Pediatric Stroke in Etiology, Risk Factors, Clinical Manifestations, and Prognosis

BACKGROUND

Stroke is relatively rare in children but has a significant impact on long-term morbidity and mortality. There are limited data regarding the etiology, clinical manifestation, and prognosis of arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) and hemorrhagic stroke (HS) in children.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to identify and compare etiology, risk factors, clinical manifestations, and prognostic outcomes between arterial ischemic and hemorrhagic pediatric stroke.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all hospital medical records and pediatric neurology database of 83 children who were first diagnosed with AIS and HS at the Pediatric Department, Chiang Mai University Hospital, Chiang Mai, Thailand between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2018. All children were from 1 month to 18 years old.

RESULTS

Fifty-one AIS (56%) and 32 (35.2%) HS were identified. The median age of onset was 6.9 years for AIS and 5.3 years for HS. Moyamoya disease/syndrome was the most common cause in AIS (21.6%). Rupture of cerebral arteriovenous malformation was the most common cause in HS (21.9%). More than one-third (39%) of children had multiple risk factors associated with stroke. Iron deficiency anemia was commonly found in children with AIS (39.2%). The majority of clinical presentations were hemiparesis (80.4%) for AIS and alteration of consciousness (68.8%) for HS. The median time to diagnosis exceeded 6 hours in both AIS and HS. The overall mortality rate of acute stroke was 5.1 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.9-9). The mortality rate was higher in HS compared with that in AIS with statistical significance (16.6; 95% CI, 8.9-30.8 vs 1.1%; 95% CI, 0.3-4.6 per 100 person-years). Thirty children (36.1%) developed epilepsy during the follow-up (median duration, 26 months). Recurrent stroke occurred in 1 child with AIS and 1 child with HS.

CONCLUSIONS

Moyamoya disease/syndrome and arteriovenous malformation rapture are the most common cause of AIS and HS, respectively. Iron deficiency anemia was commonly found in childhood AIS. The time to diagnosis in both AIS and HS was delayed. The mortality rate in HS was higher than in AIS. Neurological deficits are seen in 70% of childhood AIS during the follow-up. One-third of the children in our study developed epilepsy, which generally responds to a single antiseizure medication. The recurrence rate of childhood stroke was low compared with adult stroke.

Ischemic stroke following corrective surgery for idiopathic scoliosis in a pediatric patient: the importance of early diagnosis

PURPOSE

To present a rare case of a cerebral ischemic lesion of unknown etiology in a pediatric patient following idiopathic scoliosis surgery and to review the current literature regarding this complication in children.

METHODS

A 12-year-old female with early-onset scoliosis underwent surgery to correct a 65.6º scoliosis after a normal preoperative study. T4-L1 posterior instrumentation was performed uneventfully.

RESULTS

Twelve hours postoperatively, she developed central left facial paresis, diplopia, and gait instability. An urgent MRI scan revealed an acute ischemic lesion in the right parasagittal subthalamic-mesencephalic region, for which she received anticoagulant therapy with close monitoring. The diagnosis of "stroke of undetermined etiology" was made according to the CASCADE (Childhood Arterial Ischemic Stroke Standardized Classification and Diagnostic Evaluation) criteria. Therefore, prophylaxis was changed to antiplatelet therapy for 3 months. Symptoms resolved within a week, except for an occasional diplopia that subsided after 2 months, being asymptomatic at 2 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Although a rather frequent complication in adults, there are only 2 other reported cases of ischemic stroke in pediatric patients after scoliosis surgery, both related to longer procedures and underlying disease. Even so, it is important to consider this potential perioperative spinal complication due to the importance of early diagnosis and adequate acute treatment for prognosis.

Cerebrovascular Complications in Pediatric Patients with COVID-19 Infection

Since the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, a variety of neurological manifestations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been reported in patients, of which one of the most concerning is stroke. This review aims to summarize the current literature and evolving understanding of pediatric cerebrovascular complications in the setting of SARS-CoV-2.

Pediatric Neurocritical Care

Brain injury in children is a major public health problem, causing substantial morbidity and mortality. Cause of pediatric brain injury varies widely and can be from a primary neurologic cause or as a sequela of multisystem illness. This review discusses the emerging field of pediatric neurocritical care (PNCC), including current techniques of imaging, treatment, and monitoring. Future directions of PNCC include further expansion of evidence-based practice guidelines and establishment of multidisciplinary PNCC services within institutions.

Posterior cerebral artery dissection after excessive caffeine consumption in a teenager

Arterial ischemic stroke is a rare but significant cause of neurological deficits in childhood. Even though there is a variety of risk factors, identifying the etiology can sometimes be a hard diagnostic challenge. Arteriopathies in general, and more specifically, arterial dissection is one of the uncommon pathologies that can cause incidents of pediatric stroke. We report a rare case of a young adolescent with posterior cerebral artery dissection after excessive consumption of caffeine, contained in energy drinks, only hours before the onset of neurological symptoms. A complete neuroimaging evaluation (MRI, intracranial US and digital subtraction angiography) at the admission and during the follow-ups supported the diagnosis of arterial dissection possibly caused by caffeine overconsumption.

Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome Presenting as a Stroke in an 11-Year-Old with Lupus

Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is an infrequent but feared life-threatening complication of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). CAPS is characterized by the rapid development of numerous thromboses across multiple organs resulting in multiorgan failure. It is rare but well-documented in the adult population. In contrast, it is exceedingly uncommon in pediatric patients and therefore not yet well described in the pediatric literature. Early recognition of APS is of the utmost importance to provide timely and effective management for a positive outcome. We present the case of an 11-year-old girl with history of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and hypertension (HTN) who presented with acute onset altered mental status, found to have a large ischemic middle cerebral artery (MCA) and anterior cerebral artery (ACA) stroke as well as multiple, diffuse, and smaller ischemic lesions in the frontal lobe and cerebellum. Her presentation was further complicated by thrombocytopenia and renal and splenic infarction, as well as thrombosis of the right brachial vein consistent with a diagnosis of CAPS.

Adverse motor outcome after paediatric ischaemic stroke: A nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND

Various frequencies of adverse motor outcomes (cerebral palsy and hemiplegia) after paediatric ischaemic stroke have been reported. Few reports on the risks of adverse motor outcomes in nationwide cohorts and contributing risk factors are available.

OBJECTIVES

To assess risk of adverse motor outcome and potential risk factors thereof after paediatric ischaemic stroke in a nationwide cohort.

METHODS

This nationwide matched cohort study identified 877 children <18 years of age diagnosed with ischaemic stroke through the Swedish national health registers from 1997 to 2016. These children, exposed to ischaemic stroke, alive 1 week after stroke, were matched for age, sex and county of residence with 10 unexposed children. Using Cox regression, we estimated the risk of adverse motor outcomes in children with stroke compared to that in unexposed children. Logistic regression was applied to compare the characteristics of children with and without adverse motor outcomes after stroke.

RESULTS

Out of the 877 children with ischaemic stroke, 280 (31.9%) suffered adverse motor outcomes compared with 21 (0.2%) of the 8770 unexposed: adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 167.78 (95% confidence interval (CI) 107.58, 261.66). There were no differences between risk estimates of adverse motor outcome according to age at stroke: perinatal stroke (aHR 124.11, 95% CI 30.45, 505.84) and childhood stroke (aHR 182.37, 95% CI 113.65, 292.64). An association between adverse motor outcome and childhood stroke aOR 1.56 (95% CI 1.05, 2.31) was found when analysing only children with ischaemic stroke. No associations were found between adverse motor outcome and sex, gestational age or parental age at birth.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of adverse motor outcome is substantial after paediatric ischaemic stroke, especially childhood stroke, confirming results of previous smaller studies. This study found no associations between sex, gestational age or parental age and adverse motor outcome after paediatric ischaemic stroke.

Robotic-Assisted Hand Therapy with Gloreha Sinfonia for the Improvement of Hand Function after Pediatric Stroke: A Case Report

Background: Stroke in childhood presents a serious rehabilitation challenge since it leads to physical, cognitive and psychosocial disability. The objective of our study was to describe the effectiveness of robot-mediated therapy (RMT) with Gloreha Sinfonia in addition to a conventional treatment in the recovery of the sensory-motor capabilities of the paretic hand and the quality of life in a ten-year-old child after a stroke. Methods: The girl was enrolled to undergo 10 sessions of RMT with Gloreha Sinfonia. She was evaluated with functional scales and with upper limb kinematic analysis at pre-treatment (T0) and at the end of treatment (T1). Outcome measures were Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), Visual Analogic Scale (VAS) and Activities and Participation of Daily Life (ADL). In addition, a Force Assessment System based on Virtual Reality games was used to assess the force control and modulation capability at T0 and T1. Results: At the end of treatment, the patient improved in functional scales and in quality of life for greater involvement in some activity of daily living. Force control and modulation capability significantly increased after the treatment. Conclusions: This clinical case highlights possible positive effects of a combined (conventional plus robotic) rehabilitation treatment for the upper limb in pediatric stroke outcomes from both a sensorimotor and functional point of view, also improving the motivational and affective aspects of the patient and of family members. Further studies are needed to validate these results and to identify the most appropriate modalities and doses.

Arteriell ischämischer Schlaganfall im Kindes- und Jugendalter

Der arteriell ischämische Schlaganfall im Kindes- und Jugendalter gehört zu den zeitkritischsten pädiatrischen Notfällen, wird aber häufig erst mit prognostisch relevanter Zeitverzögerung diagnostiziert. Gründe sind geringe „Awareness“, die zuweilen unspezifische klinische Präsentation mit einer Breite an kritischen Differenzialdiagnosen und in der Fläche noch wenig verzahnte Akutversorgungsstrukturen. Die beim Erwachsenen etablierten Revaskularisationsstrategien zeigen auch beim Kind mögliche, z. T. spektakuläre Erfolge. Diese sind daher nach Möglichkeit auch betroffenen Kindern zur Verfügung zu stellen, auch wenn hier derzeit keine annähernd vergleichbare Evidenz vorliegt. Postakut ist die ätiologische Aufarbeitung aufgrund zu bedenkender Risikofaktoren komplex, muss aber das individuelle Risikoprofil mit Sekundärprophylaxe, Rezidivrisiko und Outcome präzise identifizieren. Die Langzeitbetreuung im multiprofessionellen, interdisziplinären Team muss die bio-psycho-sozialen Aspekte des Kindes in seiner jeweiligen Entwicklungsphase berücksichtigen.

Multicenter Study of the Impact of COVID-19 Shelter-In-Place on Tertiary Hospital-based Care for Pediatric Neurologic Disease

Objective

To describe changes in hospital-based care for children with neurologic diagnoses during the initial 6 weeks following regional Coronavirus 2019 Shelter-in-Place orders.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional study of 7 US and Canadian pediatric tertiary care institutions included emergency and inpatient encounters with a neurologic primary discharge diagnosis code in the initial 6 weeks of Shelter-in-Place (COVID-SiP), compared to the same period during the prior 3 years (Pre-COVID). Patient demographics, encounter length, and neuroimaging and electroencephalography use were extracted from the medical record.

Results

27,900 encounters over 4 years were included. Compared to Pre-COVID, there was a 54% reduction in encounters during Shelter-in-Place. COVID-SiP patients were younger (median 5 years vs 7 years). The incidence of encounters for migraine fell by 72%, and encounters for acute diagnoses of status epilepticus, infantile spasms, and traumatic brain injury dropped by 53%, 55%, and 56%, respectively. There was an increase in hospital length of stay, relative utilization of intensive care, and diagnostic testing (long-term electroencephalography, brain MRI, and head CT (all P<.01)).

Conclusion

During the initial 6 weeks of SiP, there was a significant decrease in neurologic hospital-based encounters. Those admitted required a high level of care. Hospital-based neurologic services are needed to care for acutely ill patients. Precise factors causing these shifts are unknown and raise concern for changes in care seeking of patients with serious neurologic conditions. Impacts of potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment require further investigation.

Case Report: Successful Mechanical Thrombectomy in a Newborn With Basilar Artery Occlusion

Background

Neonatal stroke remains a rare condition that has not yet been assessed in the field of endovascular treatment.

Case

We present the first case report of a successful mechanical thrombectomy in a newborn with a basilar occlusion the treatment was 14 hours after birth. Complete reperfusion of the basilar artery was achieved after the two thrombectomy maneuvers with stent retrievers. Imaging follow-up proved patency of the target vessel and at day 30, the patient showed no neurologic deficits.

Conclusions

Mechanical thrombectomy appears to be technically feasible and can be an individual option in selected cases to treat stroke in neonates with proven persistent proximal cerebral artery occlusion.