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A Volumetric Method for Quantification of Cerebral Vasospasm in a Murine Model of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Published on: July 28, 2018
MRA captures vasospasm in fatal migrainous infarction
Headache
|February 16, 2007
Summary
A rare case of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) presented as escalating headaches, leading to fatal strokes. This unique case highlights the critical combination of clinical, imaging, and postmortem findings in diagnosing RCVS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a condition characterized by temporary narrowing of brain arteries.
- RCVS can present with severe headaches and, in some cases, lead to ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.
- While individual features of RCVS have been reported, comprehensive documentation of its clinical, imaging, and pathological progression is limited.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old woman experienced worsening headaches that progressed to multiple strokes.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging/Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRI/MRA) revealed diffuse vasospasm.
- Premortem and postmortem examinations ruled out other potential causes of stroke.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited reversible MRI abnormalities consistent with vasospasm.
- Angiography confirmed the presence of vasospasm.
- The clinical course culminated in a fatal migrainous infarction, a rare but recognized complication of RCVS.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering RCVS in patients presenting with severe, thunderclap headaches and neurological deficits.
- The combination of diffuse vasospasm, reversible imaging findings, and stroke progression highlights the diagnostic challenges and potential severity of RCVS.
- Further research into the pathophysiology and optimal management of RCVS is warranted, particularly in severe or fatal presentations.
