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Imaging in acute basilar artery thrombosis
M Castillo1, S Falcone, T P Naidich
1Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill.
Neuroradiology
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Acute basilar artery thrombosis presents with specific imaging findings on CT and MR scans. Early recognition of these features is crucial for timely treatment and improved patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Vascular Imaging
Background:
- Basilar artery thrombosis is a critical condition affecting posterior circulation.
- Prompt diagnosis is essential for effective intervention and patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and characterize the imaging features of acute basilar artery thrombosis.
- To correlate imaging findings with clinical presentation and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of CT and MR imaging in 11 patients with acute basilar artery thrombosis.
- Inclusion of MR angiography (MRA) in a subset of patients.
- Correlation of imaging findings with clinical symptoms and autopsy results when available.
Main Results:
- Common clinical symptoms included multiple cranial nerve palsies and hemiparesis.
- CT showed hyperdense basilar arteries and posterior circulation hypodensities, including one hemorrhagic infarct.
- MR imaging demonstrated absent flow voids; MRA confirmed absent blood flow in affected arteries.
- High mortality rate observed within one week of presentation.
Conclusions:
- Acute basilar artery thrombosis exhibits characteristic imaging features on CT and MR.
- MRA is a valuable tool for confirming the diagnosis.
- Early detection through imaging can facilitate thrombolytic therapy and potentially improve survival rates.