[Attention deficit disorders after stroke in childhood].

OBJECTIVE

The present study investigates whether attention deficits increase after stroke in childhood and identifies influencing factors.

METHODS

The attentional functions of 78 children who suffered strokes were evaluated by means of neuropsychological assessments for attention abilities, the CBCL/4-18, and a standardized observation of behavior. The results were compared for age at the time of the stroke, affected hemisphere, and localisation.

RESULTS

Children and adolescents develop attention deficits due to stroke. There seems to be no influence of sex, age at stroke or localisation of stroke. Children with right-hemispheric brain damage tend to develop more attention deficits than children with left-hemispheric stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a need for an early diagnosis and the initiation of an effective treatment to avoid collateral disorders and school problems.