Ventricular obstruction secondary to vascular malformations.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Hydrocephalus is often caused by blockages in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pathways.
• Vascular malformations are abnormal structures of blood vessels.
• Typical presentations of intracranial vascular lesions include hemorrhage or seizures.

Observation:

• Two patients presented with symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, not typical neurological deficits.
• Computed tomography and angiography were used to diagnose the underlying vascular lesions.
• The first patient had an arteriovenous malformation causing headache and hydrocephalus.
• The second patient had a venous varix causing hydrocephalus.

Findings:

• Enlarged veins in vascular malformations obstructed CSF outflow pathways, leading to hydrocephalus.
• Arteriovenous malformations can cause headaches and hydrocephalus.
• Venous varices, a rare cause, were identified as the source of hydrocephalus in one patient.
• This is the first reported case of hydrocephalus secondary to a venous varix.

Implications:

• Highlights a rare etiology for hydrocephalus, emphasizing the need for comprehensive vascular imaging.
• Suggests that venous varices should be considered in the differential diagnosis of obstructive hydrocephalus.
• Underscores the importance of advanced imaging techniques in elucidating complex neurovascular pathologies.
• Contributes novel findings to the understanding of cerebrovascular disease and CSF dynamics.