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Thrombolytic therapy in an adolescent ischemic stroke
E A Noser1, R A Felberg, A V Alexandrov
1Department of Neurology, University of Texas-Houston Medical School, 77030-1501, USA. Elizabeth.a.Noser@UTH.TMC.EDU
Journal of Child Neurology
|May 3, 2001
Summary
A teenage girl experienced acute stroke symptoms and improved rapidly after receiving intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (thrombolytic therapy). The stroke was caused by a paradoxical embolus through a patent foramen ovale, highlighting the effectiveness of thrombolysis in adolescents.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Adolescent stroke is rare but can have severe consequences.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Cerebral infarcts in young individuals require investigation into underlying causes.
Observation:
- A 16-year-old female presented with acute left hemiplegia, hemisensory deficit, and dysarthria.
- Initial computed tomography scan of the brain was negative for acute infarct.
Findings:
- The patient received intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (thrombolysis) based on adult protocols.
- Significant neurological improvement was observed within 24 hours.
- Etiology identified as paradoxical embolus secondary to a patent foramen ovale and pelvic vein thrombosis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the effectiveness of thrombolytic therapy in adolescent ischemic stroke.
- Early recognition and treatment can significantly improve outcomes in young stroke patients.
- Patent foramen ovale and venous thrombosis should be considered in the workup of cryptogenic stroke in adolescents.