Pediatric cerebral sinus venous thrombosis: clinical characterization of a Portuguese cohort

Abstract

Introduction: Pediatric cerebral sinus venous thrombosis (CSVT) is a rare entity. Risk factors differ from the adults, and treatment is not consensual. With this work, we aimed to characterize a pediatric cohort from two Portuguese tertiary centers.

Methods: All patients under 18 years old with confirmed CSVT admitted between 2006 and 2019 were retrospectively included. Demographics, clinical presentation, workup, and follow-up were evaluated.

Results: Fifty-three patients were included, 29 were male (54.7%). Median age was 5 years (IQR 11.08, range 0-17 years old). Headache, seizures and impairment of consciousness were the most frequent manifestations. A risk factor was identified in 90.6% (n = 48), mostly infections (43.8%; n = 21). CNS complications were comprised of hemorrhage, venous infarction, hydrocephalus and edema. Treatment included anticoagulation in 36 patients (67.9%), and there were no recurrences on follow-up. Prognosis was favorable, with most patients presenting no or only slight disability comparing to same age and sex children, on the follow-up.

Discussion: In this cohort, impairment of consciousness was the most frequent clinical presentation and infections were the most frequent risk factors. The outcome was mainly favorable, with most patients presenting none or mild disability and without recurrences on follow-up. Studies are needed to define the criteria for anticoagulation and its recommended duration in children.

Keywords: Anticoagulation; Pediatrics; Sinovenous thrombosis; Thrombophilia.