Superior sagittal sinus thrombosis with infarction in sickle cell trait

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Hematology
• Vascular Medicine

Background:

• Pseudotumor cerebri (idiopathic intracranial hypertension) can cause serious neurological complications.
• Sickle cell trait is a common inherited blood disorder, usually asymptomatic.
• Cerebral venous thrombosis is a rare but serious cause of stroke.

Observation:

• An adolescent female with sickle cell trait experienced sudden neurological decline.
• Initial cranial CT was normal, but later scans showed hemorrhagic infarctions.
• Cerebral angiography confirmed superior sagittal sinus thrombosis.

Findings:

• Superior sagittal sinus thrombosis is a rare complication of sickle cell trait.
• Hemorrhagic infarctions indicate severe venous outflow obstruction.
• The patient presented with symptoms of increased intracranial pressure.

Implications:

• This case highlights a rare but critical association between sickle cell trait and cerebral venous thrombosis.
• Aggressive management of intracranial pressure is vital in such cases.
• Increased awareness among clinicians is needed for early diagnosis and intervention.