Neuroanatomical correlates of sensory deficits in children with neonatal arterial ischemic stroke

Abstract

Aim Our aim was to characterize the sensory processing outcome following neonatal arterial ischemic stroke (NAIS) and identify neuroanatomical correlates of abnormal sensory processing. Method We evaluated children with NAIS longitudinally at 12 months, 18 months, and/or 30 months in areas of cognitive, motor, and language development. We gathered sensory processing data using the Sensory Profile‐2 Caregiver Questionnaire. These data were analyzed against early magnetic resonance imaging using a voxel‐based approach. Results Eighteen children (10 males, 8 females) with NAIS were evaluated longitudinally, of which six exhibited atypical sensory processing. Children with sensory processing deficits had lower overall developmental scores in motor, cognitive, and language domains. Neuroanatomical correlates were identified in the posterior periventricular white matter extending superiorly into the supramarginal gyrus, and inferiorly into the fusiform and inferior temporal gyri. Interpretation Our results provide new evidence that children with NAIS may experience difficulty processing sensory information, which is most likely associated with injuries in the posterior periventricular white matter, supramarginal gyrus, fusiform gyrus, and posterior thalamic radiation. What this paper adds Atypical sensory processing is common in children with neonatal arterial ischemic stroke (NAIS). NAIS territories in sensory areas were correlated with atypical sensory processing behaviors. Children with NAIS may benefit from early interventions targeted toward sensory processing. Future research mapping NAIS injuries using early magnetic resonance imaging may predict long‐term outcomes.

Fatigue in perinatal stroke is associated with resting-state functional connectivity

“…Perhaps surprisingly, the weaker connectivity seen in fatigued participants re ected the pattern in typically developed participants, where there was virtually no functional connectivity between these areas. In adults and children with stroke, the supramarginal gyrus and middle frontal gyrus have been related to successful proprioceptive processing [32][33][34] , while individuals with perinatal stroke may have impaired proprioceptive function 23,24 . Within the predictive processing framework, both areas are associated with both prediction formation and error 26,27 .…”

Fatigue in perinatal stroke is associated with resting-state functional connectivity

“…In adults and children with stroke, the supramarginal gyrus and middle frontal gyrus have been related to successful proprioceptive processing [32][33][34] , while individuals with perinatal stroke may have impaired proprioceptive function 23,24 . Within the predictive processing framework, both areas are associated with both prediction formation and error 26,27 .…”

Early intervention following neonatal stroke: closer towards targeted therapy

“…explores potential biomarkers following neonatal arterial ischaemic stroke (NAIS) which are associated with sensory processing deficits and may predict future cognitive function. This study considers the relationship between neonatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with later developmental performance scores . In a departure from previous studies of motor deficits, the authors focus on cognitive function and sensory processing, which can pose a challenge as cognitive deficits may only become apparent as the child's development falls behind peers …”

“…1 Early multidisciplinary rehabilitation is essential (RCPCH Paediatric Stroke Guidelines, 2017); however, identifying the children who will benefit most and from which therapy remains a challenge. The study by Giudice et al 2 explores potential biomarkers following neonatal arterial ischaemic stroke (NAIS) which are associated with sensory processing deficits and may predict future cognitive function. This study considers the relationship between neonatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with later developmental performance scores.…”

“…This study considers the relationship between neonatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with later developmental performance scores. 2 In a departure from previous studies of motor deficits, the authors focus on cognitive function and sensory processing, which can pose a challenge as cognitive deficits may only become apparent as the child's development falls behind peers. 3 Giudice et al describe the relationship between sensory processing deficits and cognitive development, complementing emerging evidence supporting correlation between motor deficits and cognition after brain injury.…”