Neonatal stroke, similar to a stroke which occurs in adults, is defined as a disturbance to the blood supply of the developing brain in the first 28 days of life.[1] This description includes both ischemic events, which results from a blockage of vessels, and hypoxic events, which results from a lack of oxygen to the brain tissue, as well as some combination of the two.[2][3] One treatment with some proven benefits is hypothermia, but may be most beneficial in conjunction with pharmacological agents.[4] Well-designed clinical trials for stroke treatment in neonates are lacking, but some current studies involve the transplantation of neural stem cells and umbilical cord stem cells; it is not yet known if this therapy is likely to be successful.[4]
Neonatal strokes may lead to cerebral palsy, learning difficulties, or other disabilities.[5] A neonatal stroke occurs in approximately 1 in 4000 births, but is likely much higher due to the lack of noticeable symptoms.[1]