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Updated: Aug 5, 2026

A Thrombotic Stroke Model Based On Transient Cerebral Hypoxia-ischemia
Published on: August 18, 2015
Transient Ischemic Attack-Like Presentation of Extensive Cerebral Venous Thrombosis in a Child With Anaplastic Large
Chaymae Cherrabi1, Manal Azizi2, Amal Bennani3
1Department of Pediatric Services, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Mohammed VI, Oujda, MAR.
Insights
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare complication in children with cancer. Early diagnosis via neuroimaging and prompt anticoagulation treatment led to favorable outcomes in a pediatric lymphoma case.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Cerebrovascular Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare but serious cerebrovascular complication in children.
- Pediatric oncology patients, especially those with malignancy, are at increased risk.
- Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma is a specific subtype where CVST can occur.
Abstract:
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare but serious cerebrovascular complication in children, particularly in the setting of malignancy. We report a case of a 12-year-old boy with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma who developed extensive CVST shortly after initiation of chemotherapy. He presented with a transient neurological episode characterized by limb heaviness and dysarthria, initially suggestive of a transient ischemic attack, with complete spontaneous recovery. Although the clinical context raised concern for treatment-related complications, neuroimaging was essential for diagnosis, and magnetic resonance venography confirmed extensive CVST. The patient was treated with anticoagulation using low-molecular-weight heparin, followed by rivaroxaban, with continuation of chemotherapy under close monitoring. Clinical and radiological outcomes were favorable, with complete recanalization after nine months and no neurological sequelae. This case underscores the importance of early recognition of CVST in pediatric oncology patients with atypical neurological symptoms and the pivotal role of prompt neuroimaging.
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