Mechanical venous thrombosis risk factors (VTRFs) occurring within 14 days prior to stroke significantly increase the risk of cryptogenic ischemic stroke (CIS) in young adults aged 18–49.
The association is particularly strong in younger adults (18–39 years) and in patients with clinically relevant patent foramen ovale (PFO).
No significant association was found for VTRFs occurring more than 14 days before stroke or for thrombophilic blood markers.
These findings suggest recent mechanical VTRFs may trigger stroke via venous thromboembolism and paradoxical embolism, highlighting opportunities for targeted prevention.
