ABSTRACT NUMBER: ESOC2026A2345 ISCHEMIC STROKE IN YOUNG ADULTS: EXPERIENCE FROM AN ALGERIAN PERIPHERAL HOSPITAL

Abstract Background and aims The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the management of acute ischaemic stroke in young people in a peripheral hospital in Algeria. It also aims to analyse the risk factors and aetiologies specific to this population. Methods A single-centre retrospective observational study was conducted of patients under 50 years who presented to emergency department with suspected AIS between March 2022 and October 2025. All patients underwent neurological assessment, NIHSS score, brain neuroimaging and received treatment with antiplatelet agents, anticoagulants or thrombolysis. An aetiological work-up was also performed. Results Among 2915 stroke cases, 273 (9.4%) were under 50 years old. Of these, 27% were under 40, and 54% were women. Hypertension and/or diabetes were present in 38%, 15% had cardiac disease, 36% of men were smokers, and 18% of women used hormonal contraception. Other risk factors were present in 28%, while 15% had no known history. Minor stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) was diagnosed in 28%, treated with dual antiplatelet therapy; 15% received anticoagulation. Only 2.2% underwent thrombolysis. The most common etiology was atherosclerotic (54%), followed by cardiac causes (20%) and other etiologies (12%) such as hematologic, vasculitis, toxic, neoplastic, and HIV-related. Cryptogenic strokes accounted for 14%. Conclusions AIS in young adults is associated with a wide range of risk factors and aetiologies. The low rate of thrombolysis observed reflects the challenges of timely diagnosis and access to acute treatment. These findings highlight the need for improved awareness, early intervention and prevention strategies tailored to younger patients. Conflict of interest Behiri Amina: aucun conflit d'intérêts à déclarer