Clinical and Radiological Profile of Stroke in Young Adults Aged 15–45 Years

Background: Stroke in young adults is increasingly recognized as a significant cause of morbidity and disability. The clinical presentation and radiological characteristics of stroke in individuals aged 15–45 years differ from those observed in older populations. Aim: This study aimed to identify the clinical presentation and radiological profile of patients presenting with stroke between the ages of 15 and 45 years. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 120 patients diagnosed with stroke in the age group of 15–45 years. Detailed clinical evaluation and neurological examination were performed, and radiological assessment using CT scan of the brain was carried out to determine the type and location of stroke. Results: Seizures were observed in 23.3% of patients, while decreased level of consciousness was present in 38.3%. Dysphasia was noted in 30% of patients, and cranial nerve deficits were seen in 61.7% of cases. Motor deficits were the most common neurological manifestation, with hemiparesis occurring in 58.3% of patients. Radiological findings showed that infarction was the most common CT finding (70%), followed by hemorrhage (20%) and venous thrombosis (10%). Overall, ischemic stroke accounted for 80% of cases, whereas hemorrhagic stroke accounted for 20%. Conclusion: Stroke in young adults commonly presents with motor weakness, speech disturbances, and cranial nerve deficits. Ischemic stroke is the predominant subtype observed in this age group. Early recognition of clinical features combined with prompt radiological evaluation is essential for effective diagnosis and management.