Abstract
Introduction. Pediatric stroke is among the leading causes of mortality in children and is associated with significant sequelae in up to 50% of cases, according to published studies. Early acute treatment with tissue plasminogen activator or mechanical thrombectomy improves outcomes in selected cases, reducing the likelihood of neurological sequelae.
Clinical case: We present the case of an 8-year-old boy who presented with acute-onset oppressive headache, left-sided hemiparesis, ipsilateral sensory deficits, and visual impairment. Suspecting a stroke, an urgent CT angiography of the brain and neck was performed, yielding normal findings. Subsequent MR angiography revealed findings consistent with an acute right thalamic infarction. Etiological workup identified positive SARSCoV-2 serology with elevated anti-spike antibody titers. Intravenous corticosteroid therapy was initiated at a dose of 30 mg/kg.
Conclusions: Early clinical recognition of pediatric stroke is critical for timely and appropriate treatment. The implementation of pediatric stroke protocols can enhance diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic outcomes.
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