Dolichoectasia and Its Diagnostic Criteria: A Case Report and Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Vascular Biology
• Radiology

Background:

• Dolichoectasia (DE) is a rare, progressive condition affecting cerebral arteries, primarily in the posterior circulation.
• While often associated with the vertebrobasilar system, DE can also involve the anterior cerebral circulation.

Observation:

• This report details a case of suspected DE with concurrent dilation in both anterior and posterior cerebral vasculature.
• The observed vessel enlargement was not grossly apparent, necessitating a detailed diagnostic approach.

Findings:

• The case underscores the diagnostic challenge of subtle dolichoectasia.
• Referencing existing literature provided crucial guidelines for the diagnostic assessment.

Implications:

• Accurate and timely diagnosis of cerebral dolichoectasia is critical for patient management.
• Objective evaluation prevents the omission of significant pathologies, thereby influencing treatment strategies and patient prognosis.