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Acute Cryptogenic Stroke During West Nile Virus Infection: Case Report
Steven Peters1, Kristen Brown2
1Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Calgary Stroke Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
The Neurohospitalist
|April 19, 2021
Summary
West Nile virus infection can trigger cryptogenic stroke, even with mild symptoms. This case highlights the need to consider flaviviruses as potential causes of acute vascular events.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- West Nile virus (WNV) is an emerging North American flavivirus.
- WNV is not traditionally linked to acute vascular events like stroke.
- Flavivirus infections can cause vasculopathy, but stroke with mild WNV symptoms is rare.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old male presented with pharyngitis and rash.
- One week later, he experienced an acute cryptogenic stroke.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis confirmed acute West Nile virus infection.
Findings:
- The patient underwent successful endovascular thrombectomy for stroke.
- This case demonstrates a link between mild WNV infection and cryptogenic stroke.
- WNV may be an underappreciated cause of stroke, particularly in flavivirus-endemic areas.
Implications:
- Infections, including WNV, can act as stroke triggers.
- Consider WNV and other flaviviruses in cryptogenic stroke evaluations.
- Potential mechanisms include viral endothelial tropism or systemic inflammation.
