Perinatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke Related to Internal Carotid Artery Occlusion: Two Case Reports

Perinatal arterial ischemic stroke (PAIS) constitutes one of the leading causes of neurological deficits in children. Internal carotid artery occlusion (ICAO) represents a rare etiology of PAIS and has been documented in only a limited number of case reports. Herein, we present two cases of PAIS related to ICAO. Both neonates were discharged following resolution of acute clinical symptoms; however, follow-up assessments revealed persistent contralateral limb hypokinesia. ICAO is a rare entity in neonates, characterized by insidious and atypical manifestations in the neonatal period, and is associated with relatively poor neurological outcomes. For neonates diagnosed with PAIS, comprehensive cervical vascular imaging should be performed to enable early and definitive diagnosis of neonatal ICAO.