Acute Ischemic Stroke as a First Manifestation of Severe Iron Deficiency Anemia in a Toddler: A Case Report

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) remains the most prevalent micronutrient deficiency in children globally, often presenting with symptoms such as pale skin, reduced exercise tolerance, poor appetite, increased susceptibility to infections, and developmental delays.Among its numerous effects, the most concerning are those on the developing neurocognitive system.While its association with thromboembolic complications, particularly arterial ischemic stroke (AIS), is considered rare and often overlooked in pediatric populations, emerging evidence suggests a potential link.We present a rare case of a previously healthy toddler who was diagnosed with ischemic stroke due to a large vessels occlusion (Left Internal Carotid Artery) as the initial manifestation of severe IDA.This case highlights the importance of considering IDA as a possible underlying etiology in pediatric stroke presentations.