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Published on: April 15, 2021
Imaging of cervical artery dissection
Insights
Cervical artery dissection (CAD) is a key cause of stroke in young adults. Diagnosis via imaging, like MRI, enables targeted treatment, with most patients experiencing full recovery and rare recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Imaging
- Radiology
Background:
- Cervical artery dissection (CAD) affects carotid and vertebral arteries.
- CAD is the primary cause of ischemic stroke in individuals under 45.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review diagnostic methods for CAD.
- To outline treatment strategies and prognosis for CAD patients.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis relies on detecting mural hematoma via ultrasound or MRI.
- Contrast-enhanced MRA and CT angiography aid in diagnosis.
- MRI, particularly fat-suppressed T1 sequences, is the recommended first-line screening.
Main Results:
- Complete lumen abnormality resolution observed in 80% of cases.
- CAD recurrence is infrequent, occurring in less than 5% of patients.
- Interventional radiology is reserved for rare cases with hemodynamic compromise.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of CAD is achievable with advanced imaging techniques.
- Most patients with CAD have a favorable prognosis with low recurrence rates.
- Timely treatment, including aspirin or anticoagulants, improves outcomes.
Abstract:
Cervical artery dissection (CAD) may affect the internal carotid and/or the vertebral arteries. CAD is the leading cause of ischemic stroke in patients younger than 45 years. Specific treatment (aspirin or anticoagulants) can be implemented once the diagnosis of CAD has been confirmed. This diagnosis is based on detection of a mural haematoma on ultrasound or on MRI. The diagnosis can be suspected on contrast-enhanced MRA (magnetic resonance angiography) or CT angiography, in case of long stenosis, sparing the internal carotid bulb, or suspended, at the junction of V2 and V3 segments of the vertebral artery, in patients with no signs of atheroma of the cervical arteries. MRI is recommended as the first line imaging screening tool, including a fat suppressed T1 weighted sequence, acquired in the axial or oblique plane at 1.5T, or 3D at 3T. Complete resolution of the lumen abnormality occurred in 80% of cases, and CAD recurrence is rare, encountered in less than 5% of cases. Interventional neuroradiology (angioplasty and/or stenting of the dissected vessel) may be envisaged in rare cases of haemodynamic effects with recurring clinical infarctions in the short-term.
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