Transcranial Doppler as a useful tool in the detection of cervical steno-occlusive arteriopathy in infants

Abstract

Objective: The early detection of cervical steno-occlusive arteriopathy is essential to rapidly initiate appropriate treatment and to potentially improve neurological outcome. To accurately confirm the diagnosis, cerebral imaging is the gold standard, but it cannot be performed if the patient is unstable or if the facility is unavailable.

Cases: Here we report our experience of using transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound as a readily available, easy-to-use bedside tool to guide the rapid screening and management of cervical steno-occlusive arteriopathy in infants.

Discussion and conclusion: Children with traumatic cervical steno-occlusive arteriopathy, TCD is a potentially useful tool for early diagnosis.

Keywords: Carotid artery dissection; Cervical steno-occlusive arteriopathy; Children; Pediatric intensive care; Pediatrics; Transcranial Doppler.