Takeaway
There is an increased risk of future autism post pediatric ischemic stroke, particularly in children with comorbid epilepsy.
Why this matters
Despite some shared risk factors, there has been very limited research investigating the association between ischemic stroke and autism.
Establishing a common underlying mechanism for pediatric ischemic stroke, epilepsy, and autism may lead to improved diagnosis and management of all three conditions.
Children with ischemic stroke should be screened for autism if the disorder is suspected.