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Collins L, Lam L, Kleinig O, Proudman W, Zhang R, Bagster M, Kovoor J, Gupta A, Goh R, Bacchi S, Schultz D, Kleinig T. Verapamil in the treatment of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: A systematic review. J Clin Neurosci 2023; 113:130-141. [PMID: 37267876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2023.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Extrapolating from efficacy in subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), nimodipine has been used as a treatment for reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). However, 4-hourly dosing is a practical limitation and verapamil has been proposed as an alternative. The potential efficacy, adverse effects, preferred dosing and formulation of verapamil for RCVS have not been systematically reviewed previously. METHOD A systematic review was conducted of the databases PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library from inception to July 2022 for peer-reviewed articles describing the use of verapamil for RCVS. This systematic review adheres to the PRISMA guidelines and was registered on PROSPERO. RESULTS There were 58 articles included in the review, which included 56 patients with RCVS treated with oral verapamil and 15 patients treated with intra-arterial verapamil. The most common oral verapamil dosing regimen was controlled release 120 mg once daily. There were 54/56 patients described to have improvement in headache following oral verapamil and one patient who died from worsening RCVS. Only 2/56 patients noted possible adverse effects with oral verapamil, with none requiring discontinuation. There was one case of hypotension from combined oral and intra-arterial verapamil. Vascular complications including ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke were recorded in 33/56 patients. RCVS recurrence was described in 9 patients, with 2 cases upon weaning oral verapamil. CONCLUSIONS While no randomised studies exist to support the use of verapamil in RCVS, observational data support a possible clinical benefit. Verapamil appears well tolerated in this setting and represents a reasonable treatment option. Randomised controlled trials including comparison with nimodipine are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Collins
- Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Lydia Lam
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | | | | | - Ruyi Zhang
- Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Michelle Bagster
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Lyell McEwin Hospital, Elizabeth Vale, SA 5112, Australia
| | - Joshua Kovoor
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Aashray Gupta
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Rudy Goh
- Lyell McEwin Hospital, Elizabeth Vale, SA 5112, Australia
| | - Stephen Bacchi
- Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - David Schultz
- Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Timothy Kleinig
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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Rizzati F, Marie G, Chanez V, Ferry T, Natterer J, Longchamp D, Saliou G, Perez MH. Intra-arterial vasodilators infusion for management of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome in a 12-year-old girl: A case report. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1042509. [PMID: 36937972 PMCID: PMC10020348 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1042509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a vascular disease characterized by diffuse transient vasoconstriction and vasodilatation of the cerebral arteries. It is commonly associated with recurrent severe acute headaches with or without focal neurological deficits due to hemorrhages, infarcts, and even posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. The optimal management of acute neurologic deficits caused by RCVS is still uncertain. Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) such as nimodipine or verapamil have been reported to be effective in adult series. Intra-arterial injection of nimodipine, verapamil, and milrinone has recently been demonstrated to be safe and effective for treating severe segmental vasoconstriction in adults. CCBs are the most used treatment in the available pediatric literature. Intra-arterial vasodilators have been reported in some rare pediatric reports with more severe diseases, but their utility is still under investigation. We report a case of a 12-year-old girl who underwent a severe course of RCVS complicated by multiple cerebral infarcts, treated by several sessions of intra-arterial vasodilators infusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frida Rizzati
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Woman, Mother and Child Department, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Guillaume Marie
- Department of Radiology, Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Vivianne Chanez
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Woman, Mother and Child Department, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Ferry
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Woman, Mother and Child Department, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Julia Natterer
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Woman, Mother and Child Department, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Longchamp
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Woman, Mother and Child Department, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Guillaume Saliou
- Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maria-Helena Perez
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Woman, Mother and Child Department, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Sorrentino ZA, Laurent D, Hernandez J, Davidson C, Small C, Dodd W, Lucke‐Wold B. Headache persisting after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: A narrative review of pathophysiology and therapeutic strategies. Headache 2022; 62:1120-1132. [PMID: 36112096 DOI: 10.1111/head.14394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A. Sorrentino
- Department of Neurosurgery University of Florida College of Medicine Gainesville Florida USA
| | - Dimitri Laurent
- Department of Neurosurgery University of Florida College of Medicine Gainesville Florida USA
| | - Jairo Hernandez
- Department of Neurosurgery University of Florida College of Medicine Gainesville Florida USA
| | - Caroline Davidson
- Department of Neurosurgery University of Florida College of Medicine Gainesville Florida USA
| | - Coulter Small
- Department of Neurosurgery University of Florida College of Medicine Gainesville Florida USA
| | - William Dodd
- Department of Neurosurgery University of Florida College of Medicine Gainesville Florida USA
| | - Brandon Lucke‐Wold
- Department of Neurosurgery University of Florida College of Medicine Gainesville Florida USA
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4
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Spadaro A, Scott KR, Koyfman A, Long B. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: A narrative review for emergency clinicians. Am J Emerg Med 2021; 50:765-772. [PMID: 34879501 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2021.09.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome (RCVS) is a rare cause of severe headache that can mimic other causes of sudden, severe headache and result in frequent emergency department (ED) visits. OBJECTIVE This narrative review provides an evidence-based update concerning the presentation, evaluation, and management of RCVS for the emergency clinician. DISCUSSION RCVS can present as recurrent, severe headaches that may be maximal in onset, known as a thunderclap headache. Distinguishing from other causes of thunderclap headache such as aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, cerebral venous thrombosis, and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome is challenging. Risk factors for RCVS include use of vasoactive substances, exertion, coughing, showering, sexual activity, and cervical artery dissection. Diagnosis relies on clinical features and imaging. Cerebral catheter digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is considered the gold standard imaging modality; however, computed tomography angiography or magnetic resonance angiography are reliable non-invasive diagnostic modalities. Treatment focuses on avoiding or removing the offending agent, administration of calcium channel blockers such as nimodipine, and reversing anticoagulation if bleeding is present. Although most cases have a benign course and resolve within 3 months, focal subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, permanent neurologic disability, or death can occur in a minority of cases. CONCLUSIONS Diagnosis and appropriate management of RCVS can be aided by understanding key aspects of the history and examination. The emergency clinician can then obtain indicated imaging, confirming the diagnosis and allowing for appropriate management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Spadaro
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
| | - Kevin R Scott
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
| | - Alex Koyfman
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Brit Long
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, 3841 Roger Brooke Dr, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234, United States.
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Kakehi E, Matsumoto M, Taniguchi S, Akamatsu Y, Sakurai S, Hirotani A, Nozaki T, Shoji K, Adachi S, Kotani K, Matsumura M. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome associated with tetrodotoxin poisoning: A case report. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2021; 2:e12627. [PMID: 34988549 PMCID: PMC8702407 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.12627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
An 81-year-old woman with a history of hypertension and Alzheimer's disease presented to the emergency department because of impaired consciousness. Physical examination revealed acute progressive generalized flaccid paralysis, hypertension, respiratory failure, and pupillary dilation. Although the patient did not complain of headache, head magnetic resonance angiography and magnetic resonance imaging showed multifocal segmental cerebral vasospasm and cerebral infarction in the left occipital lobe. Her family reported that although she did not have a license to cook pufferfish, she was in the habit of eating pufferfish. We subsequently detected tetrodotoxin in the patient's urine, and she was diagnosed with tetrodotoxin poisoning. As the symptoms of tetrodotoxin intoxication improved, head magnetic resonance angiography showed the disappearance of the multifocal segmental cerebral vasospasm. The patient's clinical course and imaging findings were consistent with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). Sympathetic overactivity after tetrodotoxin intoxication possibly caused the development of RCVS, and RCVS could not be ruled out even in the absence of the typical thunderclap headache. Magnetic resonance angiography is a useful modality when performing repeated examinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiichi Kakehi
- Department of General MedicineTottori Municipal HospitalTottori‐CityTottoriJapan
| | - Makoto Matsumoto
- Department of General MedicineTottori Municipal HospitalTottori‐CityTottoriJapan
| | - Shohei Taniguchi
- Department of General MedicineTottori Municipal HospitalTottori‐CityTottoriJapan
| | - Yukinobu Akamatsu
- Department of General MedicineTottori Municipal HospitalTottori‐CityTottoriJapan
| | - Shigehisa Sakurai
- Department of General MedicineTottori Municipal HospitalTottori‐CityTottoriJapan
| | - Akane Hirotani
- Department of General MedicineTottori Municipal HospitalTottori‐CityTottoriJapan
| | - Takafumi Nozaki
- Department of General MedicineTottori Municipal HospitalTottori‐CityTottoriJapan
| | - Keisuke Shoji
- Department of General MedicineTottori Municipal HospitalTottori‐CityTottoriJapan
| | - Seiji Adachi
- Department of General MedicineTottori Municipal HospitalTottori‐CityTottoriJapan
| | - Kazuhiko Kotani
- Center for Community MedicineJichi Medical UniversityShimotsuke‐CityTochigiJapan
| | - Masami Matsumura
- Center for Community MedicineJichi Medical UniversityShimotsuke‐CityTochigiJapan
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6
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Zeitouni D, Parish JM, Smith M, Stetler WR, Bernard JD. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome successfully treated by intrathecal nicardipine. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2021; 206:106705. [PMID: 34053805 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2021.106705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) presents with a thunderclap headache, often prompting brain imaging. Most patients fully recover with supportive care and time, but oral calcium channel blockers are often used in patients with severe vasoconstriction. In this case report, we present a patient with severe vasoconstriction leading to weakness refractory to oral calcium channel blockers. Intrathecal nicardipine was administered via an external ventricular drain and the patient subsequently showed improvement of her weakness and significant improvement of vasospasm on Computed Tomography Angiography. We suggest further studies to determine the efficacy of intrathecal nicardipine in patients with RCVS not responsive to oral calcium channel blockers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Zeitouni
- UNC School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Jonathan M Parish
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Margaret Smith
- Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | | | - Joe D Bernard
- Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates, Charlotte, NC, USA
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7
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Shoskes A, Mullaguri N, Purohit M, George P, Newey CR. Ipsilateral Reversible Cerebral Vasculopathy Secondary to Carotid Artery Revascularization: A Case Report. Neurohospitalist 2021; 11:165-169. [PMID: 33791063 DOI: 10.1177/1941874420966850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The emergence of neurologic symptoms after carotid revascularization is not uncommon and typically caused by perioperative ischemic stroke or hyperperfusion. Postoperative vasculopathy, including reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a rare complication of carotid intervention and may be an under-identified cause of neurologic deficit after revascularization. We report a case of reversible postoperative vasculopathy following carotid revascularization as well as its management. Case Presentation A 74 year old right-handed woman presented to the emergency department with sudden onset left arm weakness and episodic shaking while hypotensive. Computed tomography angiography revealed total occlusion of her right internal carotid artery. Transcranial Doppler monitoring demonstrated active embolic events in her right middle cerebral artery raising concern for continued stump embolization. She underwent carotid revascularization with carotid endarterectomy, mechanical thrombectomy, and carotid angioplasty and initially did well postoperatively. On postoperative day 5, she developed a fixed right gaze and left hemiparesis. Computed tomography revealed new right frontal lobe and basal ganglia infarcts, and angiography showed new right internal carotid, middle cerebral, and anterior cerebral artery vasoconstriction consistent with postoperative vasculopathy. Despite treatment with pressure augmentation and vasodilator therapy, her symptoms persisted resulting in left hemiplegia at discharge. Discussion This case highlights postoperative vasculopathy (including RCVS) as a rare potential complication after carotid revascularization that should be considered in a patient with persistent acute neurologic symptoms. Information regarding incidence and predisposing risk factors is limited. Multiple diagnostic and therapeutic modalities may be necessary in the recognition and treatment of postoperative vasculopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Shoskes
- Cerebrovascular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Naresh Mullaguri
- Cerebrovascular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Meghan Purohit
- Cerebrovascular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Pravin George
- Cerebrovascular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Christopher Ryan Newey
- Cerebrovascular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Epilepsy Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
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8
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Alapatt PJ, Panwar A, Kuruttukulam GV, Sundar K. Lessons Learned from a Fulminant Case of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome: Past Medical History Misleads the Diagnosis and Intra-Arterial Milrinone Offers Diagnostic Utility. Neurointervention 2021; 16:78-82. [PMID: 33460536 PMCID: PMC7946561 DOI: 10.5469/neuroint.2020.00416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A 34-year-old post-partum female having dermatomyositis developed headache and became comatose after a seizure episode. Magnetic resonance imaging of brain showed a massive left ganglio-capsular bleed for which decompressive surgery was done. Computed tomographic angiography showed multiple foci of narrowing and irregularities in distal cerebral vessels. In view of dermatomyositis, the diagnosis of vasculitis was considered and pulse therapy of intravenous methylprednisolone was started. The patient, however, showed no improvement and developed new brain infarcts. She was subsequently taken up for a diagnostic cerebral angiography which showed multifocal severe narrowing in bilateral major cerebral arteries. These angiographic abnormalities showed excellent reversibility to intra-arterial milrinone and hence, reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) was diagnosed. Normal angiographic findings in the first week do not rule out the disease and a repeat angiography should be considered if the clinical suspicion of the RCVS is high. Intra-arterial milrinone has a high diagnostic utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Alapatt
- Department of Neurology, Rajagiri Hospital, Kochi, India
| | - Ajay Panwar
- Department of Neurology, Rajagiri Hospital, Kochi, India
| | | | - Kaushik Sundar
- Department of Neurology, Rabindranath International Institute of Cardiac Sciences, Kolkata, India
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9
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Sequeiros JM, Roa JA, Sabotin RP, Dandapat S, Ortega-Gutierrez S, Leira EC, Derdeyn CP, Bathla G, Hasan DM, Samaniego EA. Quantifying Intra-Arterial Verapamil Response as a Diagnostic Tool for Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2020; 41:1869-1875. [PMID: 32943423 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a6772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE There is mounting evidence supporting the benefit of intra-arterial administration of vasodilators in diagnosing reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. We prospectively quantified the degree of luminal diameter dilation after intra-arterial administration of verapamil and its accuracy in diagnosing reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients suspected of having intracranial arteriopathy on noninvasive imaging and referred for digital subtraction angiography were enrolled in a prospective registry. Intra-arterial verapamil was administered in vascular territories with segmental irregularities. The caliber difference (Caliberpost - Caliberpre) and the proportion of caliber change ([(Caliberpost - Caliberpre)/Caliberpre] × 100%) were used to determine the response to verapamil. The diagnosis of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome was made on the basis of clinical and imaging features at a follow-up appointment, independent of the reversibility of verapamil. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to determine the best threshold. RESULTS Twenty-six patients were included, and 9 (34.6%) were diagnosed with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. A total of 213 vascular segments were assessed on diagnostic angiography. Every patient with a final diagnosis of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome responded to intra-arterial verapamil. The maximal proportion of change (P < .001), mean proportion of change (P = .002), maximal caliber difference (P = .004), and mean caliber difference (P = .001) were statistically different between patients with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome and other vasculopathies. A maximal proportion of change ≥32% showed a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 88.2% to detect reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (area under the curve = 0.951). The Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome-2 score of ≥5 points achieved a lower area under the curve (0.908), with a sensitivity of 77.8% and a specificity of 94.1%. CONCLUSIONS Objective measurement of the change in the arterial calibers after intra-arterial verapamil is accurate in distinguishing reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome from other vasculopathies. A proportion of change ≥32% has the best diagnostic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Sequeiros
- From the Department of Neurology (J.M.S., J.A.R., R.P.S., S.D., S.O.-G., E.C.L., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - J A Roa
- From the Department of Neurology (J.M.S., J.A.R., R.P.S., S.D., S.O.-G., E.C.L., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.,Department of Neurosurgery (J.A.R., S.O.-G., D.M.H., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - R P Sabotin
- From the Department of Neurology (J.M.S., J.A.R., R.P.S., S.D., S.O.-G., E.C.L., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - S Dandapat
- From the Department of Neurology (J.M.S., J.A.R., R.P.S., S.D., S.O.-G., E.C.L., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - S Ortega-Gutierrez
- From the Department of Neurology (J.M.S., J.A.R., R.P.S., S.D., S.O.-G., E.C.L., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.,Department of Neurosurgery (J.A.R., S.O.-G., D.M.H., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.,Department of Radiology (S.O.-G., C.P.D., G.B., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - E C Leira
- From the Department of Neurology (J.M.S., J.A.R., R.P.S., S.D., S.O.-G., E.C.L., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - C P Derdeyn
- Department of Radiology (S.O.-G., C.P.D., G.B., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - G Bathla
- Department of Radiology (S.O.-G., C.P.D., G.B., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - D M Hasan
- Department of Neurosurgery (J.A.R., S.O.-G., D.M.H., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - E A Samaniego
- From the Department of Neurology (J.M.S., J.A.R., R.P.S., S.D., S.O.-G., E.C.L., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa .,Department of Neurosurgery (J.A.R., S.O.-G., D.M.H., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.,Department of Radiology (S.O.-G., C.P.D., G.B., E.A.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
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10
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Rocha EA, Singhal AB. Current Treatment Options in Cardiovascular Medicine: Update on Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11936-020-00819-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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11
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Lucas L, de Courson H, Marnat G, Biais M, Sibon I. Intravenous milrinone in posterior reversible Leucoencephalopathy Syndrome. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2020; 176:868-869. [PMID: 32636027 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2020.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L Lucas
- CHU de Bordeaux, Unité Neuro-vasculaire, 33076 Bordeaux, France; Université de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux, France
| | - H de Courson
- CHU de Bordeaux, Neuro-réanimation, 33076 Bordeaux, France; Université de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux, France
| | - G Marnat
- CHU de Bordeaux, Neuro-imagerie diagnostique et thérapeutique, 33076 Bordeaux, France
| | - M Biais
- CHU de Bordeaux, Neuro-réanimation, 33076 Bordeaux, France; Université de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux, France
| | - I Sibon
- CHU de Bordeaux, Unité Neuro-vasculaire, 33076 Bordeaux, France; Université de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux, France.
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12
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Fujiwara S, Ohara N, Kono T, Inui R, Imamura H, Kawamoto M, Sakai N, Kohara N. Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome in Early Pregnancy Treated with Endovascular Therapy. JOURNAL OF NEUROENDOVASCULAR THERAPY 2020; 14:177-182. [PMID: 37502693 PMCID: PMC10370675 DOI: 10.5797/jnet.cr.2019-0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Objective We report a case of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) that occurred during early pregnancy and improved by endovascular therapy (EVT). Case Presentation A 30-year-old Japanese woman at 8 weeks' gestation presented with sudden occipital headache followed by left hemiparesis and convulsion. MRI on admission revealed acute infarction in the distribution of the right posterior cerebral artery (PCA), and MRA demonstrated multi-segmental vasoconstrictions in the posterior circulation. Since the episode and image findings were suggestive of RCVS and the patient was in the organogenesis period, intravenous magnesium sulfate was administered as a vasodilator. Her level of consciousness improved temporarily; however, she suddenly fell into a stupor on day 4 of the illness. Emergency MRI demonstrated a fresh infarction in the left side of pons, and the poorer visualization of the posterior circulation. We proposed selective intra-arterial infusion of nicardipine 1 mg over 1 minute through an indwelling microcatheter in the middle of the basilar artery. The left superior cerebellar artery (SCA) and P1 blood flow improved after the procedure. Her symptoms improved gradually, and follow-up MRA performed on day 15 was almost normal. Hence, we established a definite diagnosis of RCVS. She was discharged to recovery phase rehabilitation hospital with modified Rankin Scale 4 and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) 5. Conclusion RCVS can occur in early pregnancy period, and EVT is a potential therapeutic option for RCVS in this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoru Fujiwara
- Departments of Neurology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Ohara
- Departments of Neurology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Kono
- Departments of Neurology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Ryoma Inui
- Departments of Neurology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Hirotoshi Imamura
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Michi Kawamoto
- Departments of Neurology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Sakai
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Nobuo Kohara
- Departments of Neurology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
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Hawkes MA, Hlavnicka AA, Wainsztein NA. Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome Responsive to Intravenous Milrinone. Neurocrit Care 2020; 32:348-352. [PMID: 31571175 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-019-00850-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maximiliano A Hawkes
- Department of Internal Medicine, FLENI, Montañeses 2325, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Department of Neurology, FLENI, Montañeses 2325, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | | | - Nestor A Wainsztein
- Department of Internal Medicine, FLENI, Montañeses 2325, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Ospel JM, Wright CH, Jung R, Vidal LLM, Manjila S, Singh G, Heck DV, Ray A, Blackham KA. Intra-Arterial Verapamil Treatment in Oral Therapy-Refractory Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2019; 41:293-299. [PMID: 31879333 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a6378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Reversible vasoconstriction syndrome is a complex of clinical symptoms and angiographic findings, which, while having a mostly benign clinical course, has clinical and imaging overlap with more serious disorders such as vasculitis and aneurysmal SAH and itself includes a minority of patients with fulminant vasoconstriction resulting in severe intracranial complications. Endovascular options for patients with refractory reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome include intra-arterial vasodilator infusion similar to therapy for patients with vasospasm after SAH. To date, only case reports and 1 small series have discussed the utility of intra-arterial vasodilators for the treatment of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. We report an additional series of 11 medically refractory cases of presumed or proved reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome successfully treated with intra-arterial verapamil infusion. Furthermore, we propose that the reversal of vasoconstriction, as seen on angiography, could fulfill a diagnostic criterion.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Ospel
- From the Department of Radiology (J.M.O., K.A.B.), Section of Neuroradiology and Interventional Neuroradiology, Basel University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - C H Wright
- Departments of Neurological Surgery (C.H.W.)
| | - R Jung
- Department of Neurology (R.J.), The Sandra and Malcolm Berman Brain & Spine Institute, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, LIfebridge Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - L L M Vidal
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (L.L.M.V.), University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - S Manjila
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurosciences (S.M.), McLaren Bay Region Hospital, Bay City, Michigan
| | - G Singh
- Department of Radiology (G.S.), Section of Neuroradiology, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Newark, New Jersey
| | - D V Heck
- Forsyth Radiological Associates (D.V.H.), Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - A Ray
- Neurosurgery (A.R.), University Hospitals of Cleveland Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - K A Blackham
- From the Department of Radiology (J.M.O., K.A.B.), Section of Neuroradiology and Interventional Neuroradiology, Basel University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Lakhal K, Rodie-Talbere PA, Alexandre PL, Testard N, Rozec B, Daumas-Duport B. Continuous intravenous milrinone for severe reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (a case report). J Neurol Sci 2019; 397:55-57. [PMID: 30590342 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2018.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karim Lakhal
- Réanimation chirurgicale polyvalente, Service d'anesthésie-réanimation, Hôpital Laënnec, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Nantes, F-44093 Nantes, France.
| | - Pierre-André Rodie-Talbere
- Réanimation chirurgicale polyvalente, Service d'anesthésie-réanimation, Hôpital Laënnec, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Nantes, F-44093 Nantes, France.
| | - Pierre-Louis Alexandre
- Service de radiologie, Hôpital Laënnec, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Nantes, F-44093 Nantes, France.
| | - Nathalie Testard
- Service de neurologie, Hôpital Laënnec, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Nantes, F-44093 Nantes, France.
| | - Bertrand Rozec
- Réanimation chirurgicale polyvalente, Service d'anesthésie-réanimation, Hôpital Laënnec, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Nantes, F-44093 Nantes, France; Institut du thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV Nantes, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France.
| | - Benjamin Daumas-Duport
- Service de radiologie, Hôpital Laënnec, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Nantes, F-44093 Nantes, France.
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16
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Soliman R, Zohry G. [Effect of magnesium sulphate and milrinone on cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a randomized study]. Rev Bras Anestesiol 2018; 69:64-71. [PMID: 30409409 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjan.2018.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is an important cause of premature death and disability worldwide. Magnesium sulphate is shown to have a neuroprotective effect and it reverses cerebral vasospasm. Milrinone is also used in the treatment of cerebral vasospasm. The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of prophylactic magnesium sulphate and milrinone on the incidence of cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage. METHODS The study included 90 patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage classified randomly (by simple randomization) into two groups: magnesium sulphate was given as an infusion of 500mg.day-1 without loading dose for 21 days. Group B: milrinone was given as an infusion of 0.5μg.kg-1.min-1 without loading dose for 21 days. The cerebral vasospasm was diagnosed by mean cerebral blood flow velocity in the involved cerebral artery (mean flow velocity≥120cm.s-1), neurological deterioration by Glasgow coma scale, or angiography (the decrease in diameter of the involved cerebral artery >25%). RESULTS The mean cerebral blood flow velocity decreased significantly in the magnesium group compared to milrinone group through Day 7, Day 14 and Day 21 (p<0.001). The incidence of cerebral vasospasm decreased significantly with magnesium compared to milrinone (p=0.007). The Glasgow coma scale significantly improved in the magnesium group compared to milrinone group through Day 7, Day 14 and Day 21 (p=0.036, p=0.012, p=0.016, respectively). The incidence of hypotension was higher with milrinone than magnesium (p=0.012). CONCLUSIONS The incidence of cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage was significantly lower and Glasgow coma scale significantly better with magnesium when compared to milrinone. Milrinone was associated with a higher incidence of hypotension and requirement for dopamine and norepinephrine when compared to magnesium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabie Soliman
- Cairo University, Department of Anesthesia, Cairo, Egito.
| | - Gomaa Zohry
- Cairo University, Department of Anesthesia, Cairo, Egito
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Soliman R, Zohry G. [Effect of magnesium sulphate and milrinone on cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a randomized study]. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF ANESTHESIOLOGY (ELSEVIER) 2018; 69. [PMID: 30409409 PMCID: PMC9391725 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjane.2018.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is an important cause of premature death and disability worldwide. Magnesium sulphate is shown to have a neuroprotective effect and it reverses cerebral vasospasm. Milrinone is also used in the treatment of cerebral vasospasm. The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of prophylactic magnesium sulphate and milrinone on the incidence of cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage. METHODS The study included 90 patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage classified randomly (by simple randomization) into two groups: magnesium sulphate was given as an infusion of 500mg.day-1 without loading dose for 21 days. Group B: milrinone was given as an infusion of 0.5μg.kg-1.min-1 without loading dose for 21 days. The cerebral vasospasm was diagnosed by mean cerebral blood flow velocity in the involved cerebral artery (mean flow velocity≥120cm.s-1), neurological deterioration by Glasgow coma scale, or angiography (the decrease in diameter of the involved cerebral artery >25%). RESULTS The mean cerebral blood flow velocity decreased significantly in the magnesium group compared to milrinone group through Day 7, Day 14 and Day 21 (p<0.001). The incidence of cerebral vasospasm decreased significantly with magnesium compared to milrinone (p=0.007). The Glasgow coma scale significantly improved in the magnesium group compared to milrinone group through Day 7, Day 14 and Day 21 (p=0.036, p=0.012, p=0.016, respectively). The incidence of hypotension was higher with milrinone than magnesium (p=0.012). CONCLUSIONS The incidence of cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage was significantly lower and Glasgow coma scale significantly better with magnesium when compared to milrinone. Milrinone was associated with a higher incidence of hypotension and requirement for dopamine and norepinephrine when compared to magnesium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabie Soliman
- Cairo University, Department of Anesthesia, Cairo, Egito.
| | - Gomaa Zohry
- Cairo University, Department of Anesthesia, Cairo, Egito
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18
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Al-Mufti F, Dodson V, Wajswol E, El-Ghanem M, Alchaki A, Nuoman R, Thabet A, Sutherland A, Roychowdhury S, Hidalgo A, Gupta G. Chemical angioplasty for medically refractory reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. Br J Neurosurg 2018; 32:431-435. [DOI: 10.1080/02688697.2018.1479512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fawaz Al-Mufti
- Rutgers University – Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Department of Neurology, New Brunswick NJ, USA
- Rutgers University – New Jersey Medical School, Department of Neurosurgery, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Vincent Dodson
- Rutgers University – New Jersey Medical School, Department of Neurosurgery, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Ethan Wajswol
- Rutgers University – New Jersey Medical School, Department of Neurosurgery, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Mohammad El-Ghanem
- Rutgers University – New Jersey Medical School, Department of Neurosurgery, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Abdulrahman Alchaki
- Rutgers University – New Jersey Medical School, Department of Neurology, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Rolla Nuoman
- Rutgers University – New Jersey Medical School, Department of Neurology, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Ahmad Thabet
- Rutgers University – New Jersey Medical School, Department of Neurosurgery, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Anne Sutherland
- Rutgers University – New Jersey Medical School, Department of Medicine, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Sudipta Roychowdhury
- Rutgers University – Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Department of Radiology, New Brunswick NJ, USA
| | - Andrea Hidalgo
- Rutgers University – New Jersey Medical School, Department of Neurology, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Rutgers University – Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Department of Neurosurgery, New Brunswick NJ, USA
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19
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Yamada H, Kikuchi R, Nakamura A, Miyazaki H. Severe Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome with Large Posterior Cerebral Infarction. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2018; 27:3043-3045. [PMID: 30087075 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2018.06.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is characterized by thunderclap headache and multifocal cerebral vasoconstriction. Cerebral vasoconstriction is reversible, and most cases have good prognosis. However, clinical outcome is possibly severe when it is complicated by stroke, yet detailed reports on such a case are few. We experienced a case of severe reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome in a 32-year-old woman with medical history of preeclampsia 3years prior. She presented with sudden sharp headache followed by altered mental status and vasoconstriction of the bilateral posterior cerebral arteries. She was treated with intravenous and oral calcium channel blockers, edaravone, and glycerol. However, the cerebral infarction in the posterior circulation subsequently remained, and her impaired consciousness did not recover. Furthermore, although imaging findings of vasoconstriction showed improvement a day after the occurrence of symptom, the same vessels showed poor visualization 7 weeks later, which indicated the recurrence of vasoconstriction, without additional symptom due to the fixed infarction. Although most cases of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome show good prognosis, neurologists must monitor the possibility of worse clinical course and permanent neurological deficit when associated with stroke, such as cerebral infarction. Strict management and treatment are needed in these cases.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Cerebral Angiography/methods
- Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Female
- Headache Disorders, Primary/etiology
- Headache Disorders, Primary/physiopathology
- Humans
- Infarction, Posterior Cerebral Artery/diagnostic imaging
- Infarction, Posterior Cerebral Artery/etiology
- Infarction, Posterior Cerebral Artery/physiopathology
- Infarction, Posterior Cerebral Artery/therapy
- Magnetic Resonance Angiography
- Posterior Cerebral Artery/diagnostic imaging
- Posterior Cerebral Artery/physiopathology
- Syndrome
- Tomography, X-Ray Computed
- Vasoconstriction
- Vasospasm, Intracranial/complications
- Vasospasm, Intracranial/diagnostic imaging
- Vasospasm, Intracranial/physiopathology
- Vasospasm, Intracranial/therapy
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Yamada
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hiratsuka City Hospital, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 254-0065, Japan.
| | - Ryogo Kikuchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hiratsuka City Hospital, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 254-0065, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Nakamura
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hiratsuka City Hospital, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 254-0065, Japan
| | - Hiromichi Miyazaki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hiratsuka City Hospital, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 254-0065, Japan
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20
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Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: an important and common cause of thunderclap and recurrent headaches. Clin Radiol 2017; 73:417-427. [PMID: 29274685 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2017.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is an intracranial vascular manifestation of a wide variety of diseases. It is the second most common cause of thunderclap headache, the most common cause of recurrent severe secondary headaches, and, in patients <60 years of age, has been reported as the commonest cause of isolated convexity subarachnoid haemorrhage. Radiologically, its key feature is vasoconstriction of the intracranial vessels, a dynamic process that is typically maximal at 2 weeks, varies in its distribution over the course of the disease, and typically resolves after 3 months. It can have haemorrhagic and ischaemic complications and sometimes occurs in concert with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. It also has important associations with dissection and migraine. Rarer atypical cases can present with mild headache, no headache at all, or even a comatose state. This paper provides a detailed review of this syndrome, its pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, imaging findings, and work-up. It also describes the role that high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques can have in diagnosing the disease and emphasises the central role that all radiologists have in detecting this important and underdiagnosed condition.
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21
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Fatal reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. J Neurol Sci 2017; 385:146-150. [PMID: 29406896 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We report four fatal cases of fulminant reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome, all initially diagnosed as primary central nervous system vasculitis and treated with corticosteroids. Although reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is usually self-limiting without permanent neurologic deficits, rarely it can be fatal and worse outcomes have been associated with corticosteroid treatment.
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22
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Cappelen-Smith C, Calic Z, Cordato D. Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome: Recognition and Treatment. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2017; 19:21. [DOI: 10.1007/s11940-017-0460-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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23
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Mrozek S, Lonjaret L, Jaffre A, Januel AC, Raposo N, Boetto S, Albucher JF, Fourcade O, Geeraerts T. Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome with Intracranial Hypertension: Should Decompressive Craniectomy Be Considered? Case Rep Neurol 2017; 9:6-11. [PMID: 28203185 PMCID: PMC5301123 DOI: 10.1159/000455090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a rare cause of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) causing intracranial hypertension. METHODS Case report. RESULTS We report a case of RCVS-related ICH leading to refractory intracranial hypertension. A decompressive craniectomy was performed to control intracranial pressure. We discuss here the management of RCVS with intracranial hypertension. Decompressive craniectomy was preformed to avoid the risky option of high cerebral perfusion pressure management with the risk of bleeding, hemorrhagic complications, and high doses of norepinephrine. Neurological outcome was good. CONCLUSION RCVS has a complex pathophysiology and can be very difficult to manage in cases of intracranial hypertension. Decompressive craniectomy should probably be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ségolène Mrozek
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital of Toulouse, University Paul Sabatier-Toulouse 3, Toulouse, France
| | - Laurent Lonjaret
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital of Toulouse, University Paul Sabatier-Toulouse 3, Toulouse, France
| | - Aude Jaffre
- Department of Vascular Neurology, University Hospital of Toulouse, University Paul Sabatier-Toulouse 3, Toulouse, France
| | - Anne-Christine Januel
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital of Toulouse, University Paul Sabatier-Toulouse 3, Toulouse, France
| | - Nicolas Raposo
- Department of Vascular Neurology, University Hospital of Toulouse, University Paul Sabatier-Toulouse 3, Toulouse, France
| | - Sergio Boetto
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Toulouse, University Paul Sabatier-Toulouse 3, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-François Albucher
- Department of Vascular Neurology, University Hospital of Toulouse, University Paul Sabatier-Toulouse 3, Toulouse, France
| | - Olivier Fourcade
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital of Toulouse, University Paul Sabatier-Toulouse 3, Toulouse, France
| | - Thomas Geeraerts
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital of Toulouse, University Paul Sabatier-Toulouse 3, Toulouse, France
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24
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Singhal AB, Topcuoglu MA. Glucocorticoid-associated worsening in reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. Neurology 2016; 88:228-236. [PMID: 27940651 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000003510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Factors predicting poor outcome in patients with the reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) have not been identified. METHODS In this single-center retrospective study, we analyzed the clinical, brain imaging, and angiography data in 162 patients with RCVS. Univariable and multivariable regression analysis were performed to identify predictors of persistent (nontransient) clinical worsening, radiologic worsening, early angiographic progression, and poor discharge outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 4-6). RESULTS The mean age was 44 ± 13 years; 78% of patients were women. Persistent clinical worsening occurred in 14% at 6.6 ± 4.1 days after symptom onset, radiologic worsening in 27% (mainly new infarcts), and angiographic progression in 15%. Clinical worsening correlated with angiographic progression and new nonhemorrhagic lesions. Age and sex did not independently predict any type of worsening. Infarction on baseline imaging predicted poor outcome. Prior serotonergic antidepressant use predicted clinical and angiographic worsening but not poor outcome. Intra-arterial vasodilator therapy independently predicted clinical worsening and poor discharge outcome but was offered to more severe cases. Glucocorticoid treatment proved to be an independent predictor of clinical, imaging, and angiographic worsening and poor outcome. Of the 23 patients with clinical worsening, 17 received glucocorticoids (15 within the preceding 2 days). There were no significant differences in baseline brain lesions and angiographic abnormalities between glucocorticoid-treated and untreated patients. CONCLUSION Patients with RCVS at risk for worsening can be identified on basis of baseline features. Iatrogenic factors such as glucocorticoid exposure may contribute to worsening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneesh B Singhal
- From Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School (A.B.S., M.A.T.), Boston; and Neurology Department (M.A.T.), Hacettepe University Hospitals, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet A Topcuoglu
- From Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School (A.B.S., M.A.T.), Boston; and Neurology Department (M.A.T.), Hacettepe University Hospitals, Ankara, Turkey
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25
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Ducros A, Wolff V. The Typical Thunderclap Headache of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome and its Various Triggers. Headache 2016; 56:657-73. [DOI: 10.1111/head.12797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Ducros
- Department of Neurology; Montpellier University Hospital, and Montpellier University; Montpellier France (A. Ducros)
| | - Valérie Wolff
- Stroke Unit, Department of Neurology; Strasbourg University Hospital; Strasbourg France (V. Wolff)
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26
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Calic Z, Cappelen-Smith C, Zagami AS. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. Intern Med J 2015; 45:599-608. [DOI: 10.1111/imj.12669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2014] [Accepted: 12/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Z. Calic
- Institute of Neurological Sciences; Prince of Wales Hospital; Sydney Australia
- Prince of Wales Clinical School; University of New South Wales; Sydney Australia
| | - C. Cappelen-Smith
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology; Liverpool Hospital; Sydney New South Wales Australia
- South Western Clinical School; University of New South Wales; Sydney Australia
| | - A. S. Zagami
- Institute of Neurological Sciences; Prince of Wales Hospital; Sydney Australia
- Prince of Wales Clinical School; University of New South Wales; Sydney Australia
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27
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Cerebrovascular emergencies in pregnancy. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2015; 29:721-31. [PMID: 25890883 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2015.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2014] [Revised: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Caring for pregnant and postpartum patients with neurological disease carries specific challenges. In performing a diagnosis, it is often difficult to differentiate between true pathology and neurological symptoms resulting from normal pregnancy physiology. Treating the pregnant patient can be problematic as well. Providers need to be aware of the possible untoward effects of maternal treatments on the developing fetus, but not withhold therapies that reduce disease-related morbidity and mortality. Given the complexities of conducting trials during pregnancy, few treatments are based on high-quality data; observational data and clinical expert opinion often guide treatments. With the exception of preeclampsia/eclampsia, neurological diseases typically do not warrant early delivery in the absence of fetal distress. Multidisciplinary care, utilizing the expertise of anesthesiology, critical care medicine, emergency medicine, maternal-fetal medicine, neurology, and radiology, is essential in ensuring prompt diagnosis and treatment.
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28
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Miller TR, Shivashankar R, Mossa-Basha M, Gandhi D. Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome, Part 1: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, and Clinical Course. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2015; 36:1392-9. [PMID: 25593203 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a4214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is a clinical and radiologic syndrome that represents a common presentation of a diverse group of disorders. The syndrome is characterized by thunderclap headache and reversible vasoconstriction of cerebral arteries, which can either be spontaneous or related to an exogenous trigger. The pathophysiology of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is unknown, though alterations in cerebral vascular tone are thought to be a key underlying mechanism. The syndrome typically follows a benign course; however, reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome may result in permanent disability or death in a small minority of patients secondary to complications such as ischemic stroke or intracranial hemorrhage.
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Affiliation(s)
- T R Miller
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology (T.R.M., R.S., D.G.), Section of Neuroradiology, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - R Shivashankar
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology (T.R.M., R.S., D.G.), Section of Neuroradiology, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - M Mossa-Basha
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology (M.M.-B.), Section of Neuroradiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - D Gandhi
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology (T.R.M., R.S., D.G.), Section of Neuroradiology, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
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29
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Choi KS, Yi HJ. Progressive manifestations of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, and cerebral infarction. J Korean Neurosurg Soc 2014; 56:419-22. [PMID: 25535520 PMCID: PMC4273001 DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2014.56.5.419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2013] [Revised: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is characterized by sudden-onset headache with focal neurologic deficit and prolonged but reversible multifocal narrowing of the distal cerebral arteries. Stroke, either hemorrhagic or ischemic, is a relatively frequent presentation in RCVS, but progressive manifestations of subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, cerebral infarction in a patient is seldom described. We report a rare case of a 56-year-old woman with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome consecutively presenting as cortical subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, and cerebral infarction. When she complained of severe headache with subtle cortical subarachnoid hemorrhage, her angiography was non-specific. But, computed tomographic angiography showed typical angiographic features of this syndrome after four days. Day 12, she suffered mental deterioration and hemiplegia due to contralateral intracerebral hematoma, and she was surgically treated. For recurrent attacks of headache, medical management with calcium channel blockers has been instituted. Normalized angiographic features were documented after 8 weeks. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome should be considered as differential diagnosis of non-aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, and repeated angiography is recommended for the diagnosis of this under-recognized syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyu-Sun Choi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hanyang University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyeong-Joong Yi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hanyang University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
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Kass-Hout T, Kass-Hout O, Sun CHJ, Kass-Hout T, Ramakrishnan P, Nahab F, Nogueira R, Gupta R. A novel approach to diagnose reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: a case series. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2014; 24:e31-7. [PMID: 25440342 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2014.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Revised: 08/16/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is classically diagnosed based on the presence of severe thunderclap headache, focal neurologic symptoms, and the radiographic findings of reversible diffuse segmental cerebral vasoconstriction. We present a diagnostic test that may assist in the clinical diagnosis and facilitate treatment. METHODS From October 1, 2010, to August 1, 2013, we identified consecutive patients who presented with a presumptive diagnosis of RCVS and underwent cerebral diagnostic angiography with intra-arterial (IA) vasodilator therapy. Medical records including clinical presentation, radiographic, and angiographic images were all reviewed. RESULTS We identified a total of 7 patients (4 females; age range, 22-56; mean, 45 years) who met our inclusion criteria. Four patients received a combination of milrinone and nicardipine infusion either in the internal carotid arteries or in the left vertebral artery; the remaining patients received IA therapy solely with either nicardipine or milrinone. Five patients had a positive angiographic response, defined as significant improvement or resolution of the blood vessels irregularities. All 5 patients had a definite discharge diagnosis of RCVS. The remaining 2 patients had a negative angiographic response and based on their clinical and radiographic course had a final diagnosis of intracranial atherosclerotic disease. CONCLUSIONS Our small case series suggest that IA administration of vasodilators is safe and may aid in distinguishing vasodilator responsive syndromes such as RCVS from other causes. Further study is required with long-term clinical outcome to determine the utility of this diagnostic test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tareq Kass-Hout
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Omar Kass-Hout
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Chung-Huan J Sun
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Pankajavalli Ramakrishnan
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Fadi Nahab
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Raul Nogueira
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Rishi Gupta
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wellstar Neurosurgery, Kennestone Hospital, Marietta, GA.
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Mehdi A, Hajj-Ali RA. Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome: a Comprehensive Update. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2014; 18:443. [DOI: 10.1007/s11916-014-0443-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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32
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Devenney E, Neale H, Forbes RB. A systematic review of causes of sudden and severe headache (Thunderclap Headache): should lists be evidence based? J Headache Pain 2014; 15:49. [PMID: 25123846 PMCID: PMC4231167 DOI: 10.1186/1129-2377-15-49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There are many potential causes of sudden and severe headache (thunderclap headache), the most important of which is aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage. Published academic reviews report a wide range of causes. We sought to create a definitive list of causes, other than aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage, using a systematic review. Methods Systematic Review of EMBASE and MEDLINE databases using pre-defined search criteria up to September 2009. We extracted data from any original research paper or case report describing a case of someone presenting with a sudden and severe headache, and summarized the published causes. Results Our search identified over 21,000 titles, of which 1224 articles were scrutinized in full. 213 articles described 2345 people with sudden and severe headache, and we identified 6 English language academic review articles. A total of 119 causes were identified, of which 46 (38%) were not mentioned in published academic review articles. Using capture-recapture analysis, we estimate that our search was 98% complete. There is only one population-based estimate of the incidence of sudden and severe headache at 43 cases per 100,000. In cohort studies, the most common causes identified were primary headaches or headaches of uncertain cause. Vasoconstriction syndromes are commonly mentioned in case reports or case series. The most common cause not mentioned in academic reviews was pneumocephalus. 70 non-English language articles were identified but these did not contain additional causes. Conclusions There are over 100 different published causes of sudden and severe headache, other than aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage. We have now made a definitive list of causes for future reference which we intend to maintain. There is a need for an up to date population based description of cause of sudden and severe headache as the modern epidemiology of thunderclap headache may require updating in the light of research on cerebral vasoconstriction syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Raeburn B Forbes
- Department of Neurology and Medical Library, Craigavon Area Hospital, Southern HSC Trust, County Armagh, Northern Ireland BT63 5QQ, UK.
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Manning L, Robinson TG, Anderson CS. Control of Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Neurological Emergencies. Curr Hypertens Rep 2014; 16:436. [DOI: 10.1007/s11906-014-0436-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is characterized by severe headaches with or without focal neurologic deficits and/or seizures, and segmental constriction of cerebral arteries that resolves within 3 months. This increasingly recognized syndrome is supposedly due to a transient disturbance in the control of cerebral vascular tone with sympathetic overactivity. It can cause stroke in the young. It affects mainly middle-aged women. More than half the cases occur after exposure to vasoactive substances or during postpartum. The manifestations have a monophasic course, without new clinical symptom after 4 weeks, and range from pure cephalalgic forms with recurrent thunderclap headaches over 1-2 weeks to rare catastrophic forms with multiple hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes, brain edema and death. Diagnosis may be hampered by the dynamic nature of clinicoradiological features. Convexity subarachnoid hemorrhage or stroke may occur a few days after initial normal imaging, and cerebral vasoconstriction is maximal on angiography 2-3 weeks after clinical onset. Symptomatic treatment includes rest and removal of vasoactive substances. Nimodipine has been proposed to reduce thunderclap headaches within 48 hours, but has no proven effect on the hemorrhagic and ischemic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Ducros
- Department of Neurology, Hôpital Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, France.
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35
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Yancy H, Lee-Iannotti JK, Schwedt TJ, Dodick DW. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. Headache 2013; 53:570-6. [PMID: 23489219 DOI: 10.1111/head.12040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a cerebrovascular disorder with a clinical picture that continues to be refined. It has presented to multiple subspecialties over the past several decades, bringing with it many questions regarding risk factors, diagnosis, and management. Answers have been forthcoming but many questions remain. RCVS presents with recurrent, secondary thunderclap headaches and predominantly affects young women. The mechanism of vasoconstriction is unclear, but there has been speculation regarding a hyperadrenergic state. Diagnosis requires physician awareness, vascular imaging, and knowledge of the differential. The hallmark of its diagnosis is reversibility. Management is empiric, usually with calcium-channel blockers, as there are no controlled treatment trials for RCVS. Randomized controlled trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Yancy
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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36
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Velez A, McKinney JS. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: a review of recent research. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2013; 13:319. [PMID: 23250764 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-012-0319-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a collective term used for transient noninflammatory, nonatherosclerotic segmental constriction of cerebral arteries. The angiopathies of RCVS have previously been defined by several nomenclatures. Current opinion favors the unification of these pathophysiologically related angiopathies because of their similar angiographic features and clinical course. RCVS typically presents acutely as headache, delirium, seizure, cerebral ischemia, and/or hemorrhage. The angiographic features make RCVS an important mimic of CNS vasculitides. In contrast to CNS vasculitis, RCVS is typically a transient condition with relatively good clinical outcomes. Although a complete understanding of the etiological and pathological features of RCVS has not yet been achieved, alterations in vascular tone lead to the observed arterial changes. In this review, we aim to provide a summary of RCVS and provide insight into current perspectives of the underlying pathophysiological processes, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaldo Velez
- Department of Neurology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA.
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37
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Abstract
Cranial or cervical vascular disease is commonly associated with headaches. The descriptions may range from a thunderclap onset of a subarachnoid hemorrhage to a phenotype similar to tension type headache. Occasionally, this may be the sole manifestation of a potentially serious underlying disorder like vasculitis. A high index of clinical suspicion is necessary to diagnose the disorder. Prompt recognition and treatment is usually needed for many conditions to avoid permanent sequelae that result in disability. Treatments for many conditions remain challenging and are frequently controversial due to paucity of well controlled studies. This is a review of the recent advances that have been made in the diagnosis or management of these secondary headaches.
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38
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Archavlis E, Carvi Y Nievas M. Cerebral vasospasm: a review of current developments in drug therapy and research. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.7243/2050-120x-2-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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39
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Abstract
Recurrent thunderclap headaches, seizures, strokes, and non-aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage can all reveal reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. This increasingly recognised syndrome is characterised by severe headaches, with or without other symptoms, and segmental constriction of cerebral arteries that resolves within 3 months. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is supposedly due to a transient disturbance in the control of cerebrovascular tone. More than half the cases occur post partum or after exposure to adrenergic or serotonergic drugs. Manifestations have a uniphasic course, and vary from pure cephalalgic forms to rare catastrophic forms associated with several haemorrhagic and ischaemic strokes, brain oedema, and death. Diagnosis can be hampered by the dynamic nature of clinicoradiological features. Stroke can occur a few days after initial normal imaging, and cerebral vasoconstriction is at a maximum on angiograms 2-3 weeks after clinical onset. The calcium channel blocker nimodipine seems to reduce thunderclap headaches within 48 h of administration, but has no proven effect on haemorrhagic and ischaemic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Ducros
- Emergency Headache Centre, Head and Neck Clinic, Lariboisière Hospital, Paris, France.
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40
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Ioannidis I, Nasis N, Agianniotaki A, Katsouda E, Andreou A. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: treatment with multiple sessions of intra-arterial nimodipine and angioplasty. Interv Neuroradiol 2012; 18:297-302. [PMID: 22958768 DOI: 10.1177/159101991201800308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2012] [Accepted: 05/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is characterized by acute severe headache with or without additional neurological symptoms and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction. Unruptured aneurysms have been reported in some cases with RCVS. We describe a severe case of a 50-year-old woman with RCVS presenting as cortical subarachnoid hemorrhage. Cerebral angiogram demonstrated the typical angiographic findings of RCVS and two very small unruptured aneurysms of the left internal carotid artery. The patient was treated with calcium channel blockers and the two aneurysms were successfully treated endovascularly. On day 16 the patient developed new focal neurological symptoms (severe paraparesis) and was successfully treated with intraarterial nimodipine and angioplasty in multiple sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Ioannidis
- Department of Neurosurgery and Interventional Neuroradiology, HYGEIA Hospital, Athens, Greece.
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41
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Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: an important cause of acute severe headache. Emerg Med Int 2012; 2012:303152. [PMID: 22830030 PMCID: PMC3399374 DOI: 10.1155/2012/303152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2012] [Revised: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is an increasingly recognized and important cause of acute headache. The majority of these patients develop potentially serious neurological complications. Rigorous investigation is required to exclude other significant differential diagnoses. Differentiating RCVS from subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) and primary angiitis of the central nervous system (PACNS) may be difficult but has important therapeutic implications. This paper describes what is currently known about the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical, and diagnostic features of the syndrome, an approach to investigation, a summary of treatments, and what is known of prognosis.
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42
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Marder CP, Donohue MM, Weinstein JR, Fink KR. Multimodal imaging of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: a series of 6 cases. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2012; 33:1403-10. [PMID: 22422190 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a2964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
RCVS is a clinical condition of recurrent severe headaches that may be associated with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke and that is defined by the presence of segmental vasoconstriction in multiple cerebral arteries. The angiographic appearance resembles vasculitis, except that the abnormalities resolve during the course of several months. Because the treatment of RCVS differs from that for vasculitis, radiologists must understand the clinical and radiologic features so as to better guide imaging algorithms and facilitate diagnosis. We present a series of 6 cases of RCVS that highlight the imaging features across multiple modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- C P Marder
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98104, USA
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43
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Chen SP, Fuh JL, Wang SJ. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: current and future perspectives. Expert Rev Neurother 2012; 11:1265-76. [PMID: 21864073 DOI: 10.1586/ern.11.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndromes (RCVS) are characterized by recurrent acute severe headaches, namely thunderclap headaches, and multifocal segmental vasoconstrictions. Interest has arisen in the definitions, clinical presentations, differential diagnoses, risk factors and complications of RCVS. This article will comprehensively review the milestone monographs and the latest research work addressing these issues. Studies that have focused on the relationship between RCVS and thunderclap headache will be detailed. We will also discuss research on the enigmatic pathophysiology and potential therapeutic approaches. Up-to-date information and challenges, undergoing studies and future research directions will be deeply probed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Pin Chen
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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44
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Matsuyama Y, Satake M. [A case of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) triggered by human placenta extract]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2012; 52:182-185. [PMID: 22453044 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.52.182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
We present a case of a female patient with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) arising after receiving subcutaneous injection of human placenta extract. A 44-year-old woman started taking human placenta extract with the aim of improving her menopausal symptoms, fatigue, and beauty. However, 18 days after taking human placenta extract, she had three episodes of thunderclap headache. Repeated cranial CT did not show subarachnoid hemorrhage; CSF examination showed neither xanthochromia nor inflammation. Brain diffusion weighted and FLAIR images were normal. However, magnetic resonance angiography showed multifocal segmental stenosis of the right middle cerebral artery and bilateral anterior cerebral arteries. Follow-up angiography, which performed 12 days after the oncet of thunderclap headache, revealed almost normalized flow in all cerebral arteries; we made a diagnosis of RCVS. She has had no symptoms and signs since the third attack of headache. The only identified etiologic factor was subcutaneous injection of human placenta extract started 18 days prior to onset. This is the first report of RCVS triggered by human placenta extract.
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45
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French KF, Hoesch RE, Allred J, Wilder M, Smith A, Digre KB, La Barge DV. Repetitive use of intra-arterial verapamil in the treatment of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. J Clin Neurosci 2012; 19:174-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2011.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2011] [Revised: 06/11/2011] [Accepted: 06/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Ghosh PS, Rothner AD, Zahka KG, Friedman NR. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: a rare entity in children presenting with thunderclap headache. J Child Neurol 2011; 26:1580-4. [PMID: 21750351 DOI: 10.1177/0883073811412824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is characterized by a reversible segmental and multifocal vasoconstriction of cerebral arteries, and severe headaches with or without focal neurologic deficits or seizures. A 15-year-old boy presented with thunderclap headache. He had severe hypertension, although his neurologic examination was normal. Initial workup for thunderclap headache to exclude subarachnoid or intracranial hemorrhage, meningitis, pituitary apoplexy, or venous sinus thrombosis was negative. Brain magnetic resonance angiography and cerebral angiography demonstrated bilateral anterior and posterior circulation diffuse, multifocal, vascular irregularities (beading and stenosis) suggestive of underlying vasculopathy or vasculitis. He was started on verapamil. There was complete reversal of the vascular abnormalities in 6 weeks evident by magnetic resonance angiography, with resolution of headache and normalization of blood pressure. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome has been rarely reported in children. This case report highlights the diagnostic dilemma and management of the rare childhood presentation of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Partha S Ghosh
- Center for Pediatric Neurology Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
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47
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48
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Cortical subarachnoid hemorrhage associated with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome after elective triplet cesarean delivery. Neurol Sci 2011; 32:497-501. [PMID: 21384275 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-011-0505-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2010] [Accepted: 02/16/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndromes (RCVS) comprise a group of disorders characterized by prolonged, but reversible vasoconstriction of the cerebral arteries, usually associated with acute-onset, severe, recurrent headaches, with or without additional neurological signs and symptoms. Various complications of this condition have been observed, such as cortical subarachnoid hemorrhages (cSAH), intracerebral hemorrhages, reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy, ischaemic strokes and transient ischaemic attacks. It is important to include RCVS in thunderclap headache differential diagnosis and among non-aneurismatic subarachnoid hemorrhage causes. In the past years, thanks to the major diffusion of new diagnostic tools such as magnetic resonance, computed tomography and digital subtraction angiography, RCVS have been demonstrated to be more frequent than previously thought. We report an illustrative case of a woman affected by a small cSAH, associated to RCVS, after elective triplet cesarean delivery. To our knowledge, this is the first case of cSAH associated to RCVS after a triplet pregnancy.
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49
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Sattar A, Manousakis G, Jensen MB. Systematic review of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2011; 8:1417-21. [PMID: 20936928 DOI: 10.1586/erc.10.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a cerebrovascular disorder associated with multifocal arterial constriction and dilation. RCVS is associated with nonaneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, pregnancy and exposure to certain drugs. The primary clinical manifestation is recurrent sudden-onset and severe (‘thunderclap’) headaches over 1–3 weeks, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, photophobia, confusion and blurred vision. The primary diagnostic dilemma is distinguishing RCVS from primary CNS arteritis. Diagnosis requires demonstration of the characteristic ‘string of beads’ on cerebral angiography with resolution within 1–3 months, although many patients will initially have normal vascular imaging. Many treatments have been reported to ameliorate the headaches of RCVS, but it is unclear whether they prevent hemorrhagic or ischemic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahsan Sattar
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, 1685 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705-2281, USA
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50
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Noda K, Fukae J, Fujishima K, Mori K, Urabe T, Hattori N, Okuma Y. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome presenting as subarachnoid hemorrhage, reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy, and cerebral infarction. Intern Med 2011; 50:1227-33. [PMID: 21628940 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.50.4812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is characterized by acute severe headache with or without additional neurological symptoms and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction. Unruptured aneurysm has been reported in some cases with RCVS. We report a severe case of a 53-year-old woman with RCVS having an unruptured cerebral aneurysm and presenting as cortical subarachnoid hemorrhage, reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome, and cerebral infarction. She was successfully treated with corticosteroids and a calcium channel blocker and the aneurysm was clipped. Her various complications are due to the responsible vasoconstriction that started distally and progressed towards proximal arteries. This case demonstrates the spectrum of presentations of RCVS, a clinically complicated condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuyuki Noda
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital, Japan.
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