Evolution and advances in endovascular mechanical thrombectomy of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare type of stroke and standard treatment involves anticoagulation. However, for some special CVST patients who are ineligible for anticoagulation or refractory to conservative treatment, endovascular treatment (EVT) may be an effective option. Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is a commonly used treatment. Compared with anticoagulation treatment alone, MT may result in additional procedure-related complications, however, many studies have shown that it has a high rate of vessel recanalization and lower incidence of related complications in arterial large vessel occlusion stroke. In addition, the applicability of MT in children, patients with deep cerebral thrombosis, and patients with bleeding before treatment has been reported. MT combined with intravascular thrombolysis (IVT) and other multimodal therapeutic strategies, also has a good curative effect, and further research is needed to compare and optimize different treatment strategies. Owing to the low incidence of CVST, randomized controlled clinical trials with a large sample size to explore the safety and effectiveness of MT are scarce. In addition, devices specifically designed for cerebral venous sinus and effective endovascular therapies are currently not well-established. This article summarizes different endovascular instruments and multimodal therapies for cerebral venous thrombosis. We also discuss the limitations, prospects, prognostic factors, and applications in special cases of interventional thrombectomy.

Prevalence and patterns of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis following vestibular schwannoma surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a potentially serious complication following surgical treatment of vestibular schwannoma, a benign tumor originating from Schwann cells of the vestibulocochlear nerve. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CVST following surgical treatment of vestibular schwannoma and the factors contributing to its occurrence. METHOD: Two independent researchers searched the global databases of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library up to September 01, 2023. We employed a random-effects model for data analysis. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 test. To assess the quality of the studies meeting our inclusion criteria, we employed the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist. RESULTS: We included 23 articles in this meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of CVST after vestibular schwannoma surgery was 6.4% (95%CI 3.4-11.5%). The pooled prevalence of CVST following the retrosigmoid (RS), translabyrinthine (TL), and middle cranial fossa (MCF) approaches was 4.8% (95%CI 2.0-11.0%), 9.6% (95%CI 4.3-20.3%) and 9.9% (95%CI 1.6-42.2%), respectively, revealing a significant difference between the TL and the RS approaches (Odds ratio = 2.10, 95%CI 1.45-3.04, P < 0.001). The sigmoid sinus exhibited the highest post-operative thrombosis rate (7.9%), surpassing the transverse sinus (3.7%) and involvement of both sigmoid and transverse sinuses (1.6%), respectively. No significant associations were found with demographic or surgical factors. CONCLUSION: In the current meta-analysis, we identified a 6.4% CVST prevalence following vestibular schwannoma surgery, with varying rates depending on the surgical approach. No significant associations with patient or surgical factors were found, emphasizing the need for heightened clinical vigilance and further research in this context. TRAIL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO ID: CRD42023453513.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis caused by traumatic brain injury complicating thyroid storm: a case report and discussion.

INTRODUCTION: Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is an uncommon cerebrovascular disease with diverse predisposing factors. We report a case of CVST caused by a thyroid storm induced by traumatic brain injury. CASE PRESENTATION: A 29-year-old male patient with a history of Graves' disease with hyperthyroidism presented to our hospital with head trauma of cerebral contusion and laceration in both frontal lobes confirmed by admission CT scan. He received mannitol to lower intracranial pressure, haemostatic therapy, and antiepileptic treatment. Eight days later, he presented with signs of thyroid storms, such as tachycardia, hyperthermia, sweating and irritation, and his thyroid function tests revealed high levels of TPO-Ab, TR-Ab, TG-Ab, FT3 and FT4. Then, he entered a deep coma. His brain CT showed a thrombosis of multiple venous sinuses, along with the opening of peripheral collateral vessels, congestive infarction with haemorrhage and brain swelling. He regained consciousness after treatment with antithyroid drugs, anticoagulants, respiratory support and a regimen of sedation/analgesia. After a half-year follow-up, most of the patient's blocked cerebral venous sinuses had been recanalized, but there were still some sequelae, such as an impaired fine motor performance of the right hand and verbal expression defects. CONCLUSIONS: CVST can be induced by thyroid storms, and trauma-related thyroid storms can develop on the basis of hyperthyroidism. The purpose of this case report is to raise clinicians' awareness and improve their ability to diagnose CVST early in patients with traumatic brain injury complicating thyroid storms to improve the neurological prognosis among similar patients.

Radiological evaluation in patients with clinical suspicion of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis presenting with nontraumatic headache - a retrospective observational study with a validation cohort.

BACKGROUND: Clinical suspicion of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is imprecise due to non-specific symptoms such as headache. The aim was to retrospectively assess the diagnostic value of nonenhanced CT (neCT) in patients with nontraumatic headache and clinically suspected CVST. METHODS: A retrospective consecutive series of patients referred 2013-2015 for radiology were evaluated. Eligible patients had nontraumatic headache and suspicion of CVST stated in the referral, investigated with CT venography (CTV) and nonenhanced CT (neCT). neCT scans were re-evaluated for the presence of CVST or other pathology. All CTVs were checked for the presence of CVST. The validation cohort consisted of 10 patients with nontraumatic CVT (2017-2019). RESULTS: Less than 1% (1/104) had a suspected thrombus on neCT, confirmed by subsequent CTV. The remaining 99% had a CTV excluding CVST. Eleven percent had other imaging findings explaining their symptoms. In the patient with CVST, the thrombosed dural sinus was high attenuating (maximum HU 89) leading to the suspicion of CVST confirmed by CTV. The validation cohort (n = 10) confirmed the presence of a high attenuating (HU > 65) venous structure in the presence of a confirmed thrombus in all patients presenting within 10 days (suspicion written in referral, 10%). CONCLUSIONS: Despite clinical suspicion, imaging findings of CVST in nontraumatic headache are uncommon. Evaluating neCT for high attenuation in dural sinuses, followed by CTV for confirmation in selected cases seems reasonable. CVST should be recognized by all radiologists and requires a high level of awareness when reading neCT for other indications.

Pediatric Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis: A Case Report.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) in infants is a rare vascular disorder that presents with nonspecific symptoms leading to a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Thrombus formation in the cerebral sinuses prevents blood from draining out of the brain leading to local and systemic complications. Here, we present an 11-week-old patient who presented to the emergency department (ED) with three days of lethargy, multiple episodes of projectile emesis, increased fussiness, and downward gaze. A CT scan demonstrated intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) with acute hydrocephalus. A CT venogram of the cranial vault with contrast showed a large intraluminal thrombus occupying the right transverse sinus and torcula with proximal extension into the left transverse sinus confirming the diagnosis of CVST.

Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis Following Varicella Infection: A Case Report.

A 38-year-old man presented to the emergency department with a severe frontal headache, which began three days prior without visual, speech, or balance disturbances. His past medical history was unremarkable, apart from raised cholesterol. He confirmed a recent primary Varicella-zoster virus infection (chicken pox) two weeks prior. Clinical examination revealed crusted varicella lesions on the arms, trunk, and thighs. The neurological examination revealed no deficits, neck rigidity, or abnormal gait. Routine blood investigations were unremarkable. Autoantibody screen and HIV serology were negative. CT head non-contrast showed evidence of hyperdense bilateral transverse sinus thrombosis. To confirm the findings, a CT venogram showed extensive and occlusive left transverse and sigmoid sinus thrombosis with further extension into the left internal jugular vein. The stroke team advised an MRI of the head, which reported no acute infarction, and magnetic resonance venography (MRV), which further confirmed the occlusion in the left transverse sinus, sigmoid sinus, and jugular vein. Hematology was involved and advised to start warfarin and bridging therapy with enoxaparin. His migraines experienced a substantial improvement within 48 hours of commencing treatment. He was subsequently discharged with outpatient follow-up. He continued on warfarin with a therapeutic international normalized ratio (INR) range of two to three for one year. A thrombophilia screen, JAK2, and lupus anticoagulant were checked by hematology as part of outpatient investigations. During the first six months, he experienced mild intermittent headaches; however, for the following six months, his symptoms ultimately resolved. Following a clinic evaluation one year later, his warfarin was discontinued.

Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis Complicating Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Ophthalmoplegia.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare cause of strokes and is most common in younger patients particularly those less than 50 years of age. It is more common in females than in males and is known to be associated with pregnancy, puerperium, oral contraception, congenital and acquired thrombophilia, and malignancy. Less commonly, it has been shown to be associated with infections and more recently has been found to be associated with COVID-19 infection with thrombocytopenia and the COVID-19 vaccine AstraZeneca. Rare cases have been reported in association with varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection (chickenpox) and its reactivated version of herpes zoster virus (HZV) infection (shingles). We report the case of a 68-year-old lady with herpes zoster ophthalmicus ophthalmoplegia who developed cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT).

Paradoxical Worsening of Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis Due to Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Development of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare manifestation of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). Herein, we present a case in which heparin administration for primary CVST caused paradoxical worsening of CVST secondary to HIT. A 53-year-old woman diagnosed with CVST was provided with intravenous unfractionated heparin therapy. After 12 days, the patient presented tonic convulsive seizures (TCS). Subsequent magnetic resonance image (MRI) scans revealed an exacerbation of cerebral edema with a subcortical hemorrhage on the left parietal lobe. Laboratory test results revealed a significant decline in platelet count. Heparin was immediately discontinued and replaced with argatroban. The definitive diagnosis of HIT was made through the presence of HIT antibodies. The present case, in which HIT caused the secondary CVST exacerbation, is distinctly rare. Our case provides an instructive example by highlighting the potential of TCS as the first sign of HIT development during CVST treatment.

Alcohol Emergence: A Study on Various Risk Factors and Clinical Characteristics in Patients With Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis From a Tertiary Care Hospital in South India.

Objective and aim Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare condition with significant morbidity and mortality risk involving the thrombosis of cerebral veins and dural sinuses. Its symptoms vary widely, ranging from headaches to focal neurological deficits, posing significant challenges to its diagnosis. Various contributing factors are involved in its etiology, some of which are gender specific. The clinical presentation varies widely and differs based on geographic distribution. This diversity makes CSVT challenging to diagnose, as it manifests in different ways and requires keen medical observation. Early detection is crucial for prognosis, as addressing the underlying cause can prevent further complications. This study aims to identify various causative factors and clinical presentations observed in individuals diagnosed with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST). Material and methods This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Neurology for a year, involving 55 patients admitted to the Neurology OPD/ER. Sample selection was done using non-probability convenience sampling. Patients aged 18 years or older presenting with symptoms indicative of CVST, confirmed by neuroimaging, were included in the study. Patients with arterial stroke, space-occupying lesions, and CVST related to pregnancy or puerperium were excluded. A detailed and structured medical history was obtained, and relevant blood investigations were conducted to find the underlying etiology. Results The study population had a mean age of 33 ± 2.04 years. The gender distribution is inclined towards 78.1% males due to the exclusion of pregnancy- or puerperium-related CVST to identify other predominant risk factors. 87.2% of the patients presented acutely, primarily with headaches (94.54%), and 67.2% had seizures within a week of admission. Prothrombotic conditions (45.4%) were the prevalent risk factor in the study group. Second, infections accounted for 21.8%. Alcoholism was seen in 52.7% of the study population, but its correlation with CVST remains unclear. The superior sagittal sinus (34.5%) and transverse sinus (20%) were commonly involved in neuroimaging, with multiple sinus involvement observed in some cases. Conclusion Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) presents with a wide range of symptoms, making diagnosis challenging. However, with modern imaging and lab tests, we can detect and treat it effectively, often with positive outcomes and minimal long-term effects. This study seeks to understand the risk factors associated with CVST, contributing to its diagnosis and management.

Extensive Dural Venous Thrombosis With Associated Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Due to Protein S Deficiency: A Case Report.

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon but potentially severe condition, typically affecting younger individuals, pregnant women, and those with underlying thrombophilia. We report a rare case of a 63-year-old female who presented with altered mental status, facial droop, and slurred speech and was found to have an extensive dural venous thrombosis complicated by intracerebral and subarachnoid hemorrhage due to protein S deficiency. Given her diagnosis of protein S deficiency and thrombosis, careful anticoagulation was initiated, resulting in both clinical and radiographic improvement.

Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis Associated With Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Thyroid dysfunction is a well-known cause of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), but most reports have focused on CVST associated with hyperthyroidism, with only a few mentioning CVST associated with hypothyroidism. Subclinical hypothyroidism, characterized by thyroid hormone levels within reference values but elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone, can also cause CVST. Here, we present a case of CVST associated with subclinical hypothyroidism. A 48-year-old man with headache, nausea, and left-sided motor weakness was admitted to our hospital, with a history of economy-class syndrome. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed occlusion of the superior sagittal sinus, right transverse sinus, and right sigmoid sinus. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) confirmed CVST from the right common carotid artery, revealing abnormal staining of the thyroid gland. The patient was serologically in a state of subclinical hypothyroidism. Consequently, the patient was diagnosed with CVST associated with subclinical hypothyroidism. Anticoagulation therapy was initiated shortly after admission. CVST gradually resolved, and the affected sinuses were recanalized. Paraplegia improved, and the patient was discharged home 19 days after admission with a modified Rankin scale of 1. Subclinical hypothyroidism can induce CVST, underscoring the importance of screening for thyroid function in CVST patients, even without apparent thyroid dysfunction symptoms. DSA findings are valuable for diagnosing thyroid disease.

Multimodality imaging in cerebral venous thrombosis: a synopsis for emergency radiologist.

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon but potentially fatal condition which presents with a wide range of symptoms. Some of these presenting features are vague thus contributing to the delay in diagnosis. A prompt diagnosis and initiation of appropriate therapy are therefore of paramount importance. In this pictorial, we have tried to illustrate the direct and indirect imaging features of CVT in detail on multiple imaging modalities, along with the potential pitfalls of imaging.

Study of Use of Dabigatran in Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a challenging condition to diagnose and treat due to its diverse range of clinical presentations. The incidence of CVST is increasing, and although diagnostic techniques have improved, the mainstay of treatment is heparin followed by vitamin K antagonist (VKA), warfarin has remained largely unchanged for the past three decades. However, new direct oral anticoagulants (NOACs) like dabigatran have been developed to address the limitations of VKA therapy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with magnetic resonance venography (MRV) is the current preferred diagnostic method for CVST due to its exceptional sensitivity and specificity. This prospective observational study was set out to investigate the efficacy and safety of dabigatran in treating cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. The study included 30 patients who reported regular intake of 150 mg dabigatran etexilate twice a day. Among the participants, headache was the most commonly reported symptom. The study found that patients treated with dabigatran experienced favorable outcomes, with all patients achieving re-canalization and reporting no major complications. These promising results suggest that dabigatran could be an effective treatment option for CVST cases. However, the study emphasizes the need for larger, multi-center studies to further validate these findings and improve the overall understanding of the condition and its treatment options.

IgG4-Related Disease of Mastoid Presenting as Headache: A Case Report.

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a complex multi-system inflammatory disorder that can affect various organs in the body. This condition is characterized by elevated levels of immunoglobulin G subclass 4 (IgG4) and the presence of specific histopathological features. While neurological involvement is not as common as in other organs, when it occurs, it can lead to hypertrophic pachymeningitis and hypophysitis. Here, we present a case of a 53-year-old male with right-sided hemicranial headache and diplopia. Computed tomography revealed a soft tissue density lesion in the middle ear cavity and mastoid antrum with the destruction of the mastoid septae. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a lesion in the right middle ear cavity associated with pachymeningitis and right sigmoid and transverse sinus thrombosis. Tissue pathology revealed dense plasma cell-rich chronic inflammation with storiform fibrosis. Immunohistochemistry was positive for IgG4. Hence, a diagnosis of IgG4-related disease causing mastoiditis, pachymeningitis and cerebral venous thrombosis was made. The patient was successfully operated and treated with steroids. IgG4-RD remains a rare but serious condition. It is crucial to identify and treat this condition promptly as it can lead to permanent organ damage. When patients continue to experience middle ear symptoms after an infection has been treated and cancer has been ruled out, it is important to consider inflammatory conditions as a differential diagnosis.

A Case Report of Simultaneous Intracranial Hemorrhage and Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis in a Young Indian Male: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges.

This case report discusses the intricate diagnostic and therapeutic challenges faced by a 23-year-old Indian male who presented with altered consciousness, a holo-cranial headache, right-sided hemiparesis, and subsequent neurological symptoms. The patient's dietary habits, leading to vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiencies resulting in hyperhomocysteinemia, along with binge alcohol drinking leading to dehydration, were identified as the main causes of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) in this case. The case was complicated by an additional cerebral hemorrhage. The patient received a comprehensive treatment regimen involving antiepileptic medications, intravenous fluids, and anticoagulation therapy. A decline in the Glasgow Coma Scale score prompted further interventions. Collaborative decision-making, involving neurologists, neurosurgeons, and the patient's relatives, steered the treatment course, ultimately favoring continued medical management over decompression surgery. Notably, the patient exhibited remarkable progress in mobility, achieving the ability to walk with support by the end. This case report contributes valuable insights to the understanding of CVST, emphasizing the significance of nutritional considerations, especially in vegetarians, and underscoring the importance of thorough diagnostic evaluations in complex clinical scenarios.

An Atypical Presentation of Bilateral Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis.

Diagnosis and management of cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) can be challenging, but several clinical clues can aid in a more time-efficient and cost-effective approach. This condition is rare which can delay diagnosis and be fatal due to the several important neurovascular structures that run through the cavernous sinus. This report discusses a case of CST in a male with substance use disorder whose signs, symptoms, and diagnostic findings were classic for CST. When patients present with multiple concerns, symptom recognition can be challenging, as in this case. Clinicians need to take all symptoms and physical exam findings into consideration and eliminate any bias to provide proper care for patients. Early detection can lead to a more rapid diagnosis and early initiation of adequate treatment to provide better outcomes. There are limited evidence-based guidelines regarding diagnosis and treatment. This report will also review some of the more recent literature on the topic in an attempt to aid healthcare providers in giving proper care to their patients and thereby increasing knowledge and awareness of the subject.

A Rare Case of Pseudomonas luteola Bacteremia Complicated by Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis.

Pseudomonas luteola (P. luteola), or Chryseomonas luteola, is an organism rarely reported as a human pathogen of concern. Commonly missed due to its rarity, emerging literature has shown its potential for pathogenicity; therefore, increased vigilance must always be observed in dealing with these bacteria, especially in immunocompromised patients and those with indwelling catheters, foreign bodies, and prosthetic implants. We present a case of a patient who came in for a persistent headache, found to have meningitis, and ended up with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CSVT) on further investigation. Interestingly, the patient did not have any other medical conditions, nor did he have any indwelling catheters or foreign bodies. After an extensive literature review, we report the first case of CSVT caused by P. luteola meningitis in an immunocompetent patient, and we aim to shed light on the diagnosis and treatment approach in this unusual case.

Supine headache and papilledema: A case and review of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.

Key clinical message: Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) should be on the differential for intracranial hypertension, and the preferred diagnostic tests are CT venogram or MR venography. Abstract: Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare cause of stroke and is on the differential for intracranial hypertension. Non-contrast head CT is often normal. CT venogram or MR venography are the preferred diagnostic tests, as was required in our patient. We review the presentation, diagnosis, and management of CVST.

A 44-Year-Old Male With Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare condition that can result in severe neurological complications when left untreated. Disease pathology results from thrombus development within the superficial cortical veins or the dural sinuses. Thrombosis impedes cerebral drainage leading to venous congestion and consequent increase in cerebral pressure, parenchymal damage, and blood-brain barrier disruption. Headache is the most common presenting symptom; other symptoms include focal neurological signs, seizures, papilledema, and altered sensorium. Diagnosis is typically made with visualization of obstructed flow in the cerebral venous system using one of three imaging modalities: computed tomography-venography (CTV), magnetic resonance imaging with venography (MRV), and diagnostic cerebral angiography. First-line therapy for CVST is anticoagulation, and the prognosis is generally favorable with early detection and prompt treatment. In this case report, we discuss a singular case of a patient presenting with loss of consciousness who was found to have CVST and treated with anticoagulation therapy in the setting of an intraparenchymal hemorrhage.

Extensive Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis Post COVID-19 Vaccination.

Extensive cerebral sinus thrombosis following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination is rare. We report the case of a 42-year-old man who presented with a severe generalized headache that was not relieved by analgesics for nine days. It started four days after he received the third dose of BNT162b2 (BioNTech/Pfizer). He also complained of numbness at the back of the neck, vomiting, mild blurring of vision, and diplopia. The visual acuity (VA) in the right eye was 6/9 (improved to 6/7.5 with a pinhole) and 6/6 in the left eye. He was not able to abduct both eyes and noticed a double image at lateral gaze. Fundoscopy showed swollen optic discs with the presence of disc hemorrhages. A computed tomography venogram (CTV) of the brain showed loss of normal signal void with filling defects in the superior sagittal sinus, straight sinus, bilateral transverse sinuses, bilateral sigmoid sinuses, and bilateral internal jugular veins. The nasopharyngeal swab sample was negative for SARS-CoV-2. His platelet was normal (271x109/L) and his coagulation profile was normal. Workup for connective tissue disease was negative. He was diagnosed with extensive cerebral vascular thrombosis post-vaccination. He received a one-week course of subcutaneous clexane, followed by oral anticoagulant treatment. After treatment, his headache was relieved, and the diplopia subsided. The venous thrombosis was partially resolved. Both the swollen optic discs improved, and his VA improved to 6/6 in both eyes.