Comparative analysis of clinical phenotypes in pediatric and adult stroke survivors admitted to intensive care units in low income countries.

Abstract

Stroke in low-income countries poses special problems, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs), where both pe- diatric and adult survivors exhibit distinct clinical pheno- types. Pediatric stroke is often associated with sickle cell disease, congenital heart defects, and infections, while adults predominantly present with hypertension-driven ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Resource con- straints—including limited access to neuroimaging, thrombolysis, and specialized stroke units—exacerbate delays in diagnosis and management, contributing to higher morbidity and mortality. Emerging preventive strategies, such as transcranial Doppler screening and hy- droxyurea therapy in children with sickle cell disease, demonstrate significant potential in reducing stroke inci- dence and improving neurocognitive outcomes. A com- parative analysis of pediatric and adult stroke phenotypes highlights the necessity for age-specific ICU protocols, contextually tailored management, and capacity-building initiatives in resource-limited environmentsThis mini-re- view highlights critical differences in etiology, presenta- tion, and prognosis and provides perspectives for future research and intervention strategies aimed at improving stroke care across age groups in resource-limited envi- ronments.