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Updated: Jun 18, 2026
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Longitudinal In Vivo Imaging of the Cerebrovasculature: Relevance to CNS Diseases
Published on: December 6, 2016
[Clinical and imaging features of diffuse cerebral vasoconstriction]
F Brami1, V Domigo, S Godon-Hardy
1Service d'Imagerie Médicale, Centre Hospitalier Sainte-Anne, Paris Cedex 14, France. florence.zylberberg@noos.fr
Journal De Radiologie
|December 3, 2009
Summary
Diffuse cerebral vasoconstriction, a rare cause of thunderclap headache, involves stenosis in cerebral arteries. Non-invasive imaging like Doppler US and MRA aids diagnosis and follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Vascular Imaging
Context:
- Diffuse cerebral vasoconstriction (DCV) is an uncommon cause of thunderclap headache.
- Diagnosis requires excluding other serious conditions like subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- Non-contrast CT scans can be normal, potentially delaying diagnosis.
Purpose:
- To describe the clinical and imaging characteristics of DCV.
- To evaluate the utility of non-invasive imaging techniques for diagnosing and monitoring DCV.
Summary:
- A retrospective study of 13 patients with DCV identified thunderclap headache and arterial stenosis as key features.
- Cerebral hemorrhage was noted in some cases.
- Doppler ultrasound and magnetic resonance angiography demonstrated diagnostic sensitivity.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of advanced imaging beyond non-contrast CT for DCV.
- Emphasizes the role of Doppler US and MRA in detecting and managing DCV.
- Provides insights into the clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges of DCV.
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