Spontaneous arterial thrombosis in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric vascular medicine
• Medical diagnostics

Background:

• Spontaneous peripheral artery thrombosis (SPAT) is an uncommon vascular emergency in pediatric patients.
• Prompt diagnosis and intervention are critical to prevent limb ischemia and long-term complications.

Observation:

• This report details two pediatric cases of SPAT where diagnosis was significantly delayed.
• Clinical presentation included leg pain, pallor, and diminished peripheral pulses, classic signs of acute arterial insufficiency.

Findings:

• Delayed diagnosis in both cases led to prolonged ischemia and potential for adverse outcomes.
• Angiography remains the definitive diagnostic tool for confirming or excluding SPAT in children.

Implications:

• Increased clinical suspicion for SPAT is warranted in children presenting with symptoms of acute arterial insufficiency.
• Timely diagnostic angiography can facilitate appropriate management and improve limb salvage rates in pediatric patients.