Long-Term Outcome After Bilateral Perinatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke.

AIM

We aimed to characterize the phenotype and outcome of children with bilateral, large vessel perinatal arterial ischemic stroke.

METHODS

Patients with bilateral, large vessel perinatal arterial ischemic stroke were identified from a large, population-based cohort (Alberta Perinatal Stroke Project). Subjects were included if stroke involving a major cerebral artery territory was documented in both cerebral hemispheres on magnetic resonance imaging. Standardized variables were extracted from charts including clinical presentations, associated potential risk factors, and outcomes. Outcome measures included the Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure, Gross Motor Function Classification System, and epilepsy frequency score. Electroencephalographies were reviewed for sleep, epileptiform activity, and background.

RESULTS

Of 174 children with perinatal arterial ischemic stroke, eight (5%) had bilateral large artery infarcts. Patients were followed for a mean of 9.7 years (range 1.8 to 14.6 years). One child died. All children had a total Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure of ≥2 (median 8, range 2 to 10) and Gross Motor Function Classification System ≥ II. Seven of eight (88%) children had a history of epilepsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with bilateral, large vessel perinatal stroke are at high risk of severe cognitive and motor sequelae. Epilepsy may also be more common than unilateral strokes. Cautious discussions with families regarding prognosis are recommended.