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Giant PICA aneurysm presenting as intractable hiccups
Shanu Gambhir1, Amardeep Singh, Bhavna Maindiratta
1Department of Neurosurgery, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia. shanugambhir@gmail.com
Summary
Intractable hiccups in a young woman were caused by a giant posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysm compressing the brainstem. Surgical removal of the PICA aneurysm resolved the persistent hiccups.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Vascular Neurology
Background:
- Intractable hiccups are a rare and debilitating condition.
- Posterior fossa lesions can present with neurological symptoms, including hiccups.
Observation:
- A 23-year-old female presented with persistent, intractable hiccups.
- A giant posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysm was identified as the cause.
- The aneurysm was compressing the medulla oblongata.
Findings:
- Surgical resection of the PICA aneurysm was performed.
- Decompression of the medulla oblongata was achieved.
- The patient's intractable hiccups resolved post-operatively.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare cause of intractable hiccups.
- Posterior fossa aneurysms should be considered in the differential diagnosis of persistent hiccups.
- Surgical intervention can be effective in resolving hiccups caused by PICA aneurysms.
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