Acute ischemic stroke in a 7-month-old infant, risk factors, and diagnosis peculiarities: A case report

Lorena Elena Meliţ1, Cristina Oana Mărginean1, Iunius Simu2

  • 1Department of Paediatrics.

Medicine
|November 15, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric ischemic stroke, though rare, requires prompt diagnosis. This case highlights a 7-month-old infant

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Vascular Neurology
  • Neonatal Stroke

Background:

  • Ischemic stroke in children is rare, with diagnosis delays being common.
  • Early recognition and intervention are critical for improved outcomes in pediatric stroke patients.

Observation:

  • A 7-month-old infant presented with unilateral limb weakness and focal seizures.
  • Clinical presentation included right-sided hemiparesis and focal clonic seizures affecting the hand and oral commissure.

Findings:

  • Laboratory findings revealed elevated D-dimers and positive antiphospholipid antibodies (IgG anti-cardiolipin, anti-beta2 glycoprotein I).
  • Genetic testing identified MTHFR C677T and A1298C heterozygote mutations.
  • Brain imaging confirmed left frontal ischemic stroke, carotid artery hypoplasia, and cerebral artery agenesis.

Implications:

  • Cerebral vascular malformations, obesity, and dyslipidemia can contribute to pediatric ischemic stroke.
  • Multifaceted treatment including anticoagulation, antiplatelet therapy, and supportive care led to significant neurological improvement.
Abstract

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