Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome and bilateral vertebral artery dissection presenting in a patient after cesarean section

J Neurointerv Surg. 2014 Jan;6(1):e5. doi: 10.1136/neurintsurg-2012-010521.rep. Epub 2013 Feb 5.

Abstract

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is characterized by sudden-onset thunderclap headache and focal neurologic deficits. Once thought to be a rare syndrome, more advanced non-invasive imaging has led to an increase in RCVS diagnosis. Unilateral vertebral artery dissection has been described in fewer than 40% of cases of RCVS. Bilateral vertebral artery dissection has rarely been reported. We describe the case of a patient with RCVS and bilateral vertebral artery dissection presenting with an intramedullary infarct treated successfully with medical management and careful close follow-up. This rare coexistence should be recognized as the treatment differs.

Keywords: Blood Flow; Dissection; Stroke.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cesarean Section* / adverse effects
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Pregnancy
  • Vasospasm, Intracranial / diagnosis*
  • Vasospasm, Intracranial / etiology
  • Vasospasm, Intracranial / therapy
  • Vertebral Artery Dissection / diagnosis*
  • Vertebral Artery Dissection / etiology
  • Vertebral Artery Dissection / therapy