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Published on: August 30, 2020
Dolichoectasia and multifocal simultaneous intracranial haemorrhages
Jose Gutierrez1, David Adams, Leticia Tornes
1University of Miami/Leonard M Miller School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, 1387, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
BMJ Case Reports
|February 9, 2012
Summary
This study highlights a rare case of multiorganic dolichoectasia, presenting as multiple brain hemorrhages and an aortic aneurysm. This suggests a systemic arterial wall disease rather than isolated atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
- Pathology
Background:
- Dolichoectasia, characterized by elongated and widened arteries, is often associated with atherosclerosis in the elderly.
- It can lead to severe neurological complications like stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) due to brainstem compression.
- Emerging evidence points to disruption of the internal elastic lamina, suggesting potential multiorganic involvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of multiorganic dolichoectasia presenting with multiple intracranial hemorrhages.
- To investigate the potential underlying cause of widespread arterial abnormalities.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 79-year-old female with altered mental status and hemiplegia.
- Diagnostic workup including neuroimaging and vascular imaging.
- Pathological correlation to assess arterial wall integrity.
Main Results:
- The patient exhibited dolichoectasia of intracranial arteries and an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
- Multiple intraparenchymal hemorrhages were identified.
- Findings suggest a systemic 'media disease' affecting arteries of various sizes.
Conclusions:
- This case illustrates a rare presentation of multiorganic dolichoectasia.
- The findings support the hypothesis of a systemic arterial media disease as the underlying pathology.
- Further research is warranted to understand the pathogenesis and clinical implications of this condition.
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