Neurological injury in pediatric heart disease: A review of developmental and acquired risk factors and management considerations

Semin Pediatr Neurol. 2024 Apr:49:101115. doi: 10.1016/j.spen.2024.101115. Epub 2024 Jan 20.

Abstract

Medical and surgical advancements have improved survival in children with acquired and congenital heart disease (CHD), but the burden of neurological morbidity is high. Brain disorders associated with CHD include white matter injury, stroke, seizure, and neurodevelopmental delays. While genetics and disease-specific factors play a substantial role in early brain injury, therapeutic management of the heart disease intensifies the risk. There is a growing interest in understanding how to reduce brain injury and improve neurodevelopmental outcomes in cardiac diseases. Pediatric neurologists serve a vital role in care teams managing these complex patients, providing interpretation of neuromonitoring and imaging, managing neurologic emergencies, assisting with neuro prognostication, and identifying future research aims.

Keywords: Mechanical Circulatory Support; congenital heart disease; heart failure; seizure; stroke; ventricular assist device.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Disease Management
  • Heart Diseases* / etiology
  • Heart Diseases* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors