Risk Factors for Perinatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke: A Case–Control Study

Introduction:Arterial ischemic stroke in newborns is an important cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Its pathophysiology and associated risk factors are not yet clearly understood and defined.Objective:The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate possible risk factors in diagnosed cases of PAIS (perinatal arterial ischemic stroke).Materials and methods:Case–control study. Clinical data of patients with PAIS diagnosis were analyzed. Two healthy controls were selected for each PAIS case, matched for gestational age. Risk factors were explored using univariable and multivariable analysis.Outcome:40 patients were included in the study, 24 males and 16 females; 52.5% of cases were diagnosed within the first month of birth, and 47.5% were retrospectively diagnosed. The results showed a male predominance (66.7%). The distribution of cerebral ischemic injury was predominantly medial cerebral artery (87.5%) and occurred more commonly in the left cerebral hemisphere (62.5%). Significant risk facto...