Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 3, 2025

Optic Nerve Sheath Point of Care Ultrasound: Image Acquisition
Published on: August 18, 2023
Optic neuropathy, a warning for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis and underlying dural arteriovenous fistulae
1Department of Neurology, Yueyang Central Hospital, Yueyang City, Hunan Province, China.
Abstract:
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) typically presents as headache, papilledema, and seizures. A dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is a rare intracranial vascular malformation, and common symptoms include headache, pulsatile tinnitus, and stroke. The occurrence of CVST as a complication of DAVF is infrequent. Moreover, optic neuropathy presenting as the initial symptom of CVST and secondary DAVF is also unusual. We present a case of a patient with optic neuropathy and persistent intracranial hypertension who underwent head magnetic resonance imaging, which indicated CVST. She received normative anticoagulant and dehydration therapy; however, a repeated lumbar puncture showed dramatically increased intracranial pressure. Further digital subtraction angiography revealed an intracranial DAVF. The patient was finally diagnosed with a DAVF and secondary CVST. This case indicates that intractable optic neuropathy could be an uncommon indicator for CVST and secondary DAVF. Early diagnosis and early treatment are essential for visual rehabilitation and prognosis improvement.
Related Concept Videos
Glaucoma: Overview
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Arteries of the Head and Neck
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Veins of Head and Neck
On the other hand, the vertebral veins, unlike their arterial counterparts, are not primarily responsible for brain drainage. Instead, they drain the cervical vertebrae, spinal cord, and some small...
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation

