Post-Traumatic Carotid Artery Dissection Begins at the Skull Base: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Traumatology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Cervical artery dissection is an uncommon cause of ischemic stroke, particularly in younger populations.
• Internal carotid artery dissection typically occurs distal to the carotid bulb.

Observation:

• A 25-year-old female presented with dysphasia and right-sided weakness two days after a road traffic accident involving blunt head trauma.
• Imaging revealed acute ischemic stroke in the left cerebral hemisphere and near-occlusion of the left internal carotid artery at the skull base.

Findings:

• The dissection originated at the skull base, an unusual location, likely due to tethering of the internal carotid artery.
• The patient's condition did not improve despite anticoagulation therapy.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering cervical artery dissection in patients with blunt head trauma and neurological deficits.
• Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for improving outcomes in post-traumatic cervical artery dissection.