Quality-of-life and psychosocial outcome following childhood arterial ischaemic stroke

Objectives: This study investigates psychosocial outcome and quality-of-life in children who have experienced arterial ischaemic stroke (AIS), using a multidimensional and multi-perspective approach. It also examines the predictors of quality-of-life following childhood AIS. Method: Forty-nine children between 6-18 years of age were recruited from a specialist childhood stroke clinic. Children, their parents and their teachers rated the child's quality-of-life. Questionnaires rating the child's self-esteem, behaviour and emotions were administered. Each child also underwent a neuropsychological assessment. Results: The findings show that child-, parent- and teacher-rated health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) is significantly lower than comparative norms following childhood AIS, across all domains (physical, emotional, social, school and cognitive functioning). Predictors of HRQoL include neurological severity, executive function, self-esteem and family functioning. Conclusions: Improved screening, services and interventions are necessary to monitor longer-term outcome and provide support for children who have experienced AIS and their families.