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Updated: May 27, 2026
13:10
Combined Near-infrared Fluorescent Imaging and Micro-computed Tomography for Directly Visualizing Cerebral Thromboemboli
Published on: September 25, 2016
Cerebral thrombosis complicating Crohn's disease: two cases
Laïla Benjilali1, Saadia Aidi, Hanane El Mansouri
1Neurology A and Neuropsychology Department, Specialities Hospital, Rabat, Morocco. laila13ma@yahoo.fr
Summary
Cerebral venous thrombosis is a rare complication of inflammatory bowel disease. This study presents two Crohn's disease cases, highlighting the importance of recognizing this association.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gastroenterology
- Hematology
Background:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with an increased risk of venous and arterial thrombosis.
- Cerebrovenous thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon but serious complication of IBD.
Observation:
- Two cases of Crohn's disease (CD) patients presenting with CVT are detailed.
- Case 1: A 35-year-old male with CD developed confusion, left lateral sinus thrombosis, and infarction, linked to protein S deficiency. He improved with anticoagulation.
- Case 2: A 38-year-old female with CD experienced sudden loss of consciousness and tetraplegia due to extensive CVT, leading to a fatal outcome.
Findings:
- Neuroimaging confirmed CVT in both CD patients.
- Coagulation abnormalities, including protein S deficiency and activation of both fibrinolysis and coagulation, were noted.
- The pathogenic mechanisms linking IBD and thrombosis remain unclear, with potential inherited risk factors suggested.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical need for heightened awareness of CVT in IBD patients.
- Suggests that underlying thrombophilia may contribute to CVT in this population.
- Underscores the potential benefit of early anticoagulation in managing CVT associated with CD.
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