Long-Term Outcomes of Pediatric Ischemic Stroke in Adulthood

Abstract

This population-based study assesses the long-term impact of childhood stroke on function and independence in young adults. We undertook a cross-sectional outcome study of patients with arterial ischemic stroke and cerebral sinovenous thrombosis, beyond 18 years of age. We studied 26 patients; 21 arterial stroke, 5 cerebral sinovenous thrombosis, with 16 females. Mean age at assessment was 21.5 years, and mean follow-up time was 10.8 years. According to the modified Rankin Scale, final outcomes were 37% normal, 42% mild, 8% moderate, and 15% severe deficits. Risk factors for abnormal functional outcome included arterial ischemic stroke, presence of arteriopathy, and 1-year poststroke Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure score ≥ 2 ( P < .05). Most (77-84%) were independent in driving, relationships, and employment. Functional status at 1 year poststroke strongly predicts long-term outcome. Mental illness in one-quarter of young adults surviving childhood stroke represents an important direction for research.