Ischemic stroke in patients under age 45
1Department of Neurology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Neurologic Clinics
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Ischemic stroke in adults under 45 is more common than previously thought, with cardiac embolism, arterial dissection, and migraine as leading causes. Early investigation and treatment are crucial for a reasonable prognosis in young adults.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Ischemic stroke is often considered a condition primarily affecting older individuals.
- However, recent data suggests a significant incidence of stroke in younger populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and etiological factors of ischemic stroke in adults under the age of 45.
- To compare the causes of stroke in young adults with those in older individuals.
- To highlight the importance of an active investigative approach in young stroke patients.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from the Lausanne Stroke Registry.
- Comparison of etiological factors between young and older stroke patients.
Main Results:
- Over 10% of ischemic stroke patients in the Lausanne Stroke Registry were under 45 years old.
- Common causes in young adults include cardiac embolism, arterial dissection, and migraine.
- Atherosclerosis is a less frequent cause in this age group compared to older individuals.
Conclusions:
- Ischemic stroke in individuals under 45 is not rare and shares etiological similarities with older populations, differing mainly in relative frequencies.
- The distinct etiological profile in young adults necessitates a proactive investigative strategy.
- Prognosis following the acute phase of stroke in young adults is generally favorable.
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