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Multifactorial Nature of Childhood Stroke Presents a Major Challenge for Diagnosis and Management: A Population-Based

Jussi V Leinonen1, Samu Kurki1, Siina Pamilo2

  • 1Bayer Oy, Espoo, Finland.

Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|July 1, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Childhood ischemic stroke is rare but serious, with diverse causes and frequent diagnostic delays. Early recognition is crucial for better outcomes in pediatric stroke patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Cerebrovascular Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Childhood ischemic stroke (CIS) is uncommon but leads to significant long-term disability.
  • The varied causes of CIS complicate prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the diagnostics, treatment, and outcomes of pediatric ischemic stroke.
  • To analyze the incidence and etiological subgroups of CIS in a defined population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective, population-based observational study.
  • Utilized hospital data and chart review for 137 patients aged 1 month to 18 years.
  • Excluded hemorrhagic strokes.

Main Results:

  • Median annual incidence of 2.5 per 100,000 children.
  • Top etiological subgroups: idiopathic (18%), arteriopathy (16%), major surgery (13%), cardiac embolism (13%), infection (12%).
  • Over 50% diagnosed >24 hours post-symptom onset; 15% developed epilepsy; 6% experienced recurrent stroke.

Conclusions:

  • CIS presents with heterogeneous causes and significant long-term morbidity.
  • Frequent diagnostic delays highlight the need for improved pediatric stroke recognition.
  • Low recurrence rates suggest the influence of population-specific factors on risk and outcomes.
Abstract

Keywords:
ischemic strokeneurological deficitspaediatricsrisk factorsseizures

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