Reason for Neonatal Strokes Identified!

Important cause of neonatal strokes occurring in the womb or just after birth has been discovered by scientists, which further paves the way for new treatments.

Important cause of neonatal strokes occurring in the womb or just after birth has been discovered by scientists at the Walter And Eliza Hall Institute which further paves the way for new treatments as published in the journal Blood.

Earlier studies suggest that platelets (small blood cells known for blood clotting) weren’t required during the early stages of development. However present study derives an important role of these cells in neonatal strokes.

Stroke – Early Warning Signs - Risk Factor - Rehab - Treatment
Stroke can cause permanent disability and it is important to recognize its early warning signs to stop its progress. Early warning signs of stroke include sudden weakness of facial muscles.

‘Important cause of neonatal strokes occurring in the womb or just after birth has been discovered by scientists, which further paves the way for new treatments. ’

Platelets generally prevent the bleeding by clumping and forming plugs to stem blood vessel injuries, such as cuts or abrasions, restricting blood loss. Any reduction of platelets is termed as ‘Thrombocytopenia’ that allows for excessive bleeding during any blood vessels damage.

Role of Platelets

It is found that bleeding in the brain of the babies (in the womb or newborn) can be caused by a low number of platelets. Thus any type of bleeds can ultimately lead to fatal strokes or permanent neurological conditions, such as cerebral palsy.

Brain Hemorrhage | Intracranial Hemorrhage
Brain hemorrhage or intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a type of stroke due to bleeding into the brain tissues and its surrounding regions.

“We pinpointed a clear link between low platelets and brain bleeds. We also showed that the time point at which thrombocytopenia occurs, determines the region of the brain where bleeding occurs,” says Dr. Alison Farley who led the study at the Walter And Eliza Hall Institute.

The study thereby suggests that platelets play a crucial role in the fetal and newborn brain in preclinical models for causing strokes. This may serve as a first step in identifying new treatments and optimal windows for such treatments during pregnancy to prevent these strokes.

How to Deal with a Stroke - Signs - Symptoms - Risk Factors - Prevention
Stroke is a brain attack, which occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. It affects all age groups; according to the WHO, 15 million people are affected by stroke annually.

Source-Medindia

'Red Flags' You Should Look Out For
Any deviation from normal health can cause symptoms, some of which are ominous and need immediate attention.