High Prevalence of Antiphospholipid Antibodies in Children With Idiopathic Cerebral Ischemia

Background. The presence of circulating antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) is frequently associated with thromboembolic phenomena. Objective. To investigate the prevalence of aPLs, detected as lupus anticoagulant (LA) or anticardiolipin antibody (aCL), in a group of unselected children with idiopathic cerebral ischemia. Design. Prospective, case series. Setting. A pediatric neurology department. Patients. Thirteen children with cerebral ischemia (eight with stroke, three with transient ischemic attacks, and two with ocular ischemia). Age-matched apparently healthy children served as controls. Measurements. LA and aCL determination was performed within 3 days after the occurrence of the ischemic event and was repeated after 3 to 6 months