Mechanical thrombectomy by stent retriever for the treatment of arterial ischemic stroke in a pediatric patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a case report

Introduction: Arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by occlusion of large vessels in childhood is a devastating rare condition that can contribute to long-term disabilities. Childhood leukemia is identified as a recognized risk factor for ischemic strokes. Mechanical thrombectomy is the standard of care for large vessel occlusions in adults. However, there are still no definite recommendations regarding the application and outcomes of endovascular thrombectomy and the devices used for pediatric patients with arterial ischemic stroke.

Case presentation: The authors report a 13-year-old female with acute lymphoblastic leukemia who developed AIS due to thrombosis in the left internal carotid and proximal middle cerebral artery in the induction phase of treatment. The patient underwent successful mechanical thrombectomy via Solumbra by using "Embolus Retriever with Interlinked Cages (ERIC)" stent retriever and Sofia plus catheter, which resulted in successful recanalization of ICA and MCA.

Discussion: Selected pediatric patients with AIS due to large vessel occlusions can benefit from mechanical thrombectomy. Although the recently published literature demonstrated the efficacy and safety of MT in children, strong guideline recommendations are still absent. At present, the last AHA/ASA guidelines for early management of AIS recommends intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular therapy in adults, whereas controversy still exists in children. An urgent approach within the defined therapeutic time frame and a multidisciplinary team specialized in pediatric stroke with professionally trained interventional neuroradiologist is essential for achieving optimal results.

Conclusion: Mechanical thrombectomy provides promising results with high rates of arterial recanalization and favorable outcomes in pediatric patients with AIS.