P.115 Vessel Wall Imaging of Unusual Childhood Strokes: a Pediatric Case Series

Abstract

Background: MR-based vessel wall imaging (VWI) has gained influence in the clinical investigations, and management of pediatric strokes. Limitations still exist in interpreting it as a singular modality. Methods: We present 4 pediatric stroke cases with VWI enhancement. Results: Case 1. 4-year old boy with sickle cell anemia, who developed encephalopathy during a hemolytic crisis. MR-VWI revealed bilateral extracranial internal carotid enhanced narrowing, deemed a secondary vasculopathy, with resolution upon follow-up. Case 2. 16-year old male presented with left middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction. VWI revealed left internal carotid terminus and proximal MCA enhancement. Conventional angiography showed abnormalities in mesentric and hepatic arteries. Stability sustained on anticoagulation and immunosuppressive therapy. Case 3. 10-year old girl, developed bilateral MCA infarctions with enhanced extracranial segments of both ICAs, and narrow PCAs, consistent with Moyamoya vasculopathy. Improved on combined immunosuppressive and anticoagulation therapy. Case 4. 13-year old boy had an episode of right facial weakness, with a normal neurological exam; with enhancement and narrowing in the left extracranial ICA, likely an intramural hematoma from dissection. He responded to dual anticoagulation therapy. Conclusions: In conclusion, these cases illustrate similarities in vessel wall imaging abnormalities under different clinical contexts, with practical utility in longitudinal follow-up and prognostication.