What is the definition of a pediatric stroke?

A pediatric stroke is defined as a stroke that occurs in a patient less than 18 years of age. This distinction is essential because strokes in children can present differently than in adults, and the underlying causes, risk factors, and treatments may vary significantly.

Pediatric strokes often require careful consideration of the developmental and physiological differences in children. The recognition of stroke symptoms in young patients can be more challenging, as they might not express or exhibit the typical symptoms seen in adults. Therefore, understanding that a stroke occurring in a child is categorized as a pediatric stroke is crucial for appropriate assessment, prompt intervention, and specialized care aimed at this specific population.

The other choices, while related to strokes, do not adequately define what constitutes a pediatric stroke. For example, spells of care or recovery protocols are important but are secondary to the age-based definition that identifies the condition itself.