Infection related cerebral venous thrombosis

The incidence of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) has dropped dramatically in recent years. In the past, before the introduction of antibiotics, infection was the main cause of CVT. But this is no longer true. Recently, the occurance of septic CVT is rare, which leads to an increased chance of misdiagnosis and treatment delay. Early suspicion and recognition is very crucial to improve mortality and morbidity rates of this potentially fatal disease. Intravenous, wide spectrum, antibiotics and early surgical drainage of the primary site of infection whenever possible are essential. Anticoagulation with intravenous heparin infusion and corticosteroids use are of uncertain benefit, although some reports have shown some favorable response.