Aetiology and risk factor assessment in children with stroke presented to Stroke Unit, National Hospital of Sri Lanka

Authors

  • DS Wijesekara University Paediatric Unit, Teaching Hospital Colombo South
  • PS Gunaratne Neurology Unit 2, National Hospital of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Objective: Evaluation of aetiology and risk factors in children with stroke in Sri Lanka.

Introduction: Aetiology and risk factors for stroke in children may vary between different communities and geographical locations. The risk factors for stroke in children are numerous and differ greatly from adults; a thorough diagnostic evaluation can identify aetiology/risk factors in most patients. Aetiologies/risk factors for stroke in children in Sri Lanka are not known to date.

Method: The data of children aged 1 to 16 with stroke presented to stroke unit from January 2005 to June 2007 were analyzed.

Results: There were 30 patients with an age range of 1-16years (mean age 8.5 years). Boys 53%. There were 25 (83%) ischaemic and 5 (17%) intracerebral haemorrhages. Possible aetiology was determined in 25(83%). Of those with intracranial haemorrhages, two presented with AVMs and one each with haemophilia, low platelets and trauma. Commonest cause for stroke was cardioembolic (20%), followed by unknown causes (17%). Extra cranial carotid dissections, infective/inflammatory causes and Moya moya disease accounted for 7% each. One child had a stroke following snake bite.

Conclusion: Ischemic stroke is the commonest cause for paediatric stroke in the present series, an aetiology for ischemia was detected in 83%. Cardioembolic was the commonest cause identified. In 17% of patients no cause was identified despite extensive investigations. Investigating a larger group would gather more information for Sri Lanka.

Author Biographies

DS Wijesekara, University Paediatric Unit, Teaching Hospital Colombo South

University Paediatric Unit,Teaching Hospital Colombo South

PS Gunaratne, Neurology Unit 2, National Hospital of Sri Lanka

Neurology Unit 2,National Hospital of Sri Lanka

Published

2012-12-30