Epstein–Barr virus-associated focal cerebral arteriopathy in a child with stroke: a case report

Background: Pediatric stroke is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that often presents with nonspecific symptoms such as headache and vomiting, as well as focal neurological deficits or seizures in a minority of patients, making early diagnosis challenging. Case: A previously healthy child who presented with acute neurological deficits and was diagnosed with focal cerebral arteriopathy (FCA) on the basis of neuroimaging and serological findings. After treatment, she fully recovered without any neurological deficits. Conclusion: This case underscores the need for increased awareness of virus-associated arteriopathies in pediatric stroke patients, and emphasizes the importance of early recognition, neuroimaging, viral workup and treatment.

Pediatric stroke; Emergency department; Focal cerebral arteriopathy (FCA); Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)

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