Early Cognitive Outcome After Neonatal Stroke

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the cognitive development of 27 children with nonhemorrhagic neonatal stroke (occurring within the first 28 days of life). The cognitive evaluation consisted of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, administered at 12 and/or 24 months poststroke. Compared with the normative sample, children with neonatal stroke obtained significantly lower scores on the Bayley Psychomotor Development Index at 12 months poststroke and on the Bayley Mental and Psychomotor Development Indices at 24 months poststroke. Outcome did not differ based on stroke type or laterality of infarct. However, there was a trend toward higher scores on the Bayley Psychomotor Development Index at 24 months in the left hemisphere group compared to the right hemisphere group. Overall, children with neonatal stroke evidenced significant impairment within the first 2 years poststroke. Further research is required to confirm whether cognitive impairments in these children resolve, remain in the low-average range, or increase with development as more complex skills are learned.