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Extensive Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis Post COVID-19 Vaccination
Lee Min Foo1,2, Wan-Hazabbah Wan Hitam1,2, Mohtar Ibrahim1,2
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medical Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, MYS.
A rare case of extensive cerebral sinus thrombosis occurred after the third dose of the BNT162b2 (BioNTech/Pfizer) severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine. Prompt anticoagulant treatment led to symptom relief and partial resolution of the thrombosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vaccinology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Cerebral sinus thrombosis is a rare but serious complication that can occur after vaccination.
- The BNT162b2 (BioNTech/Pfizer) vaccine is widely used for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) prevention.
Observation:
- A 42-year-old man developed severe headache, diplopia, and visual disturbances four days after his third SARS-CoV-2 vaccine dose.
- Brain imaging revealed extensive cerebral venous thrombosis involving multiple sinuses and jugular veins.
- Ophthalmological examination showed swollen optic discs and hemorrhages.
Findings:
- The patient's platelet count and coagulation profile were normal, and connective tissue disease workup was negative.
- Diagnosis was extensive cerebral vascular thrombosis post-BNT162b2 vaccination.
- Treatment with anticoagulants resulted in symptom improvement and partial thrombosis resolution.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare adverse event following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
- Early diagnosis and anticoagulant therapy are crucial for managing cerebral sinus thrombosis.
- Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms and incidence of vaccine-associated cerebral venous thrombosis.
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