Ischemic Stroke in Young Adults: Practical Diagnosis Guide

Abstract

With its increasing incidence in younger population and as a leading cause of disability, ischemic stroke represents a real public health problem. This chapter aims to evaluate the most common risk factors and causes for ischemic stroke in the young. Though some are identical to those found in older patients, most of them are specific to this population segment. Furthermore, another objective is to provide some guidance in approaching the case based on some important clinical clues. Due to the lack of universal management guidelines, it is up to the physician to judge the particularities of each case and to carry out the variety of investigations necessary for determining the cause.

Case Report: COVID-19 and Ischemic Stroke in A 16-Year-Old Patient

“…COVID-19 also has a wider and faster spread to several countries than SARS. 3 Populations who are elderly, have chronic diseases, and have low immune systems are more susceptible to this infection and its complications. 7 In general, there are 3 general symptoms that can indicate someone is infected with SARS-CoV-2, fever (body temperature above 38 o C), dry cough, shortness of breath.…”

“…2 In young people, the causes can be multiple: heart, vascular, or genetic disorders that require further, sometimes complex investigations. 3 The diagnosis of stroke in young age can be challenging to differentiate from stroke mimics and to identify the cause or underlying pathogenesis. 4 Many factors can affect blood flow in the brain, including the condition of the pulse or arteries, arteries can be narrowed by the process of atherosclerosis or blocked by thrombus or embolus.…”