Cervical artery dissection: emerging risk factors
S Micheli1, M Paciaroni, F Corea
1Department of Rehabilitation, SC Riabilitazione Intensiva Neuromotoria, Trevi, Italy.
The Open Neurology Journal
|January 29, 2011
Summary
Cervical artery dissection (CAD) is a leading cause of stroke in young adults. Research is ongoing to understand emerging risk factors like infections and migraines, alongside known causes such as trauma and genetic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
- Genetics
Background:
- Cervical artery dissection (CAD) is a significant cause of stroke, particularly in young adults.
- Associated factors include arterial wall diseases (e.g., fibrodysplasia), connective tissue disorders (e.g., Ehlers-Danlos syndrome IV, Marfan's syndrome), and vessel abnormalities like tortuosity.
- An underlying, potentially genetic, arteriopathy is suspected in CAD pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate emerging risk factors for cervical artery dissection (CAD).
- To further elucidate the complex pathogenesis of CAD, which remains incompletely understood.
- To consolidate current knowledge on known and potential risk factors for CAD.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on emerging risk factors for CAD.
- Analysis of identified risk factors, including trauma (e.g., chiropractic manipulation, coughing, hyperextension injuries) and non-traumatic factors.
- Examination of potential associations with conditions like respiratory tract infections, migraine, and hyperhomocysteinemia.
Main Results:
- CAD is a primary cause of ischemic stroke in younger populations.
- Established risk factors include arterial diseases, genetic syndromes, vessel abnormalities, and trauma.
- Emerging factors like infections, migraines, and hyperhomocysteinemia require further research to confirm their role.
Conclusions:
- Understanding CAD pathogenesis requires continued investigation into both established and emerging risk factors.
- Further research is crucial to clarify the role of factors like infections, migraines, and hyperhomocysteinemia in CAD.
- Comprehensive risk factor analysis is essential for improving CAD diagnosis and prevention strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Aneurysm I: Introduction
An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
01:17Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction
A hemorrhagic stroke is an acute neurological event that occurs when a weakened cerebral blood vessel ruptures, allowing blood to accumulate within or around the brain. The sudden release of blood forms a focal hematoma that increases intracranial pressure, displaces neural tissue, and can obstruct cerebrospinal fluid pathways. These effects may be compounded by intraventricular extension of the hemorrhage, cerebral edema, or compression of adjacent structures, all of which contribute to...
01:30Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): An Overview with Scientific InsightsCoronary Artery Disease (CAD), often referred to as C-A-D, is a prevalent blood vessel disorder classified under the broader category of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a pathological process characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques are composed of cholesterol, fatty substances, inflammatory cells, calcium, and fibrin, reducing blood flow to...
01:15Ischemic Stroke l: Introduction
Ischemic stroke is an acute cerebrovascular condition in which blood flow to a brain region is suddenly interrupted, leading to tissue infarction. Neurons depend on continuous oxygen and glucose supply, so even brief reductions in perfusion cause energy failure, ionic imbalance, and irreversible injury. Ischemic strokes are classified into thrombotic and embolic types based on their underlying mechanisms.Thrombotic MechanismsThrombotic stroke develops when a clot forms within a cerebral artery.
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...