Update on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension

Identifying idiopathic intracranial hypertension in a hospital-based chronic headache population: Utility of magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance venography and trans-orbital sonography

BACKGROUND

One of the most underestimated types of chronic headaches is headaches as a result of cerebro-spinal fluid dysregulation disorders. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) presents with headache and visual symptoms and usually is associated with papilledema. We identified patients with IIH in a chronic headache population presenting to a hospital-based headache clinic, and studied its associations with clinical, sonographic and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings.

METHODS

Of 168 patients, 141 chronic headache patients were identified and completed the study procedures (semi-structured medical interview, fundus examination, MRI brain with magnetic resonance venography (MRV) and trans-orbital sonography (TOS)). Patients with abnormal findings underwent lumbar puncture for opening pressure.

RESULTS

The prevalence of IIH was 27%. IIH patients were of higher age, had gnawing/throbbing headache in the vertex in most cases, and had higher body mass index. Fundus examination had a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 98% for the detection of IIH cases. Approximately 23% of IIH patients had no papilledema. The most sensitive MR sign was found to be transverse sinus stenosis. TOS showed optic nerve sheath dilation in 35.7% of IIH without papilledema cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of IIH is high in the chronic headache population and should be suspected in the headache clinic setting, particularly because there is significant overlap with migraine symptomatology. MRI/MR venography and TOS can be useful adjunct tests to identify IIH patients.

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension - a spinal disease

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) remains an underdiagnosed condition despite increasing awareness due to recent scientific advances. Diagnosis can be delayed by the broad clinical presentation and imaging pitfalls. This results in a high degree of physical impairment for patients, including social and psychological sequelae as well as long-term damage in the case of delayed diagnosis and treatment.The study is based on a selective literature search on PubMed including articles from 1990 to 2023 and the authors' clinical experience from working in a CSF center.SIH mostly affects middle-aged women, with the primary symptom being position-dependent orthostatic headache. In addition, there is a broad spectrum of possible symptoms that can overlap with other clinical conditions and therefore complicate the diagnosis. The causative spinal CSF loss can be divided into three main types: ventral (type 1) or lateral (type 2) dural leak and CSF-venous fistula (type 3). The diagnosis can be made using a two-stage workup. As a first step, noninvasive MRI of the head and spine provides indicators of the presence of SIH. The second step using focused myelography can identify the exact location of the cerebrospinal fluid leak and enable targeted therapy (surgical or interventional). Intrathecal pressure measurement or intrathecal injection of gadolinium is no longer necessary for primary diagnosis. Serious complications in the course of the disease can include space-occupying subdural hematomas, superficial siderosis, and symptoms of brain sagging, which can lead to misinterpretations. Treatment consists of closing the dural leak or the cerebrospinal fluid fistula. Despite successful treatment, a relapse can occur, which highlights the importance of follow-up MRI examinations and emphasizes the chronic nature of the disease. This paper provides an overview of the diagnostic workup of patients with suspected SIH and new developments in imaging and therapy. · SIH is an underdiagnosed condition with a wide range of possible symptoms.. · The first diagnostic step using MRI provides indications of the presence of SIH.. · The second diagnostic step using (dynamic) myelography can identify the CSF leak.. · Collaboration with a CSF center is advisable for further diagnosis and treatment.. · Prompt detection and treatment of SIH improves the outcome.. · Zander C, Wolf K, El Rahal A et al. Spontaneous intracranial hypotension - a spinal disease. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2024; DOI 10.1055/a-2318-8994.

Rebound Intracranial Hypertension

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Rebound intracranial hypertension (RIH) is a post-procedural treatment complication in patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) characterized by transient high-pressure headache symptoms. This article reviews the epidemiology, clinical features, risk factors, and treatment options for RIH.

RECENT FINDINGS

This article discusses how changes in underlying venous pressure and craniospinal elastance can explain symptoms of RIH, idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), and SIH. The pathophysiology of RIH provides a clue for how high and low intracranial pressure disorders, such as IIH and SIH, are connected on a shared spectrum.

Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension: Case Report and Update on Diagnosis and Treatment

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is an important cause of daily headaches that occur in young and middle-aged, active persons and is often misdiagnosed, leading to prolonged inactivity and rather high healthcare expenditures. Its diagnosis requires a high degree of clinical suspicion and careful interpretation of imaging studies. We present a case of SIH, which was successfully treated but which posed serious diagnostic challenges, ranging from cerebro-vascular disease and meningitis to granulomatous diseases, and for whom every therapeutic attempt just worsened the patient's condition until we finally reached the correct diagnosis. To raise awareness of this condition, we also present an updated overview of the clinical picture, evaluation, and treatment options for SIH.

Endovascular Embolization Techniques for Cerebrospinal Fluid-Venous Fistula in the Treatment of Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension

Cerebrospinal fluid-venous fistula (CVF) is an important cause of spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH), a condition characterized by low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume and orthostatic headaches. The pathogenesis of CVF is thought to be direct connection of the spinal dura to one or more veins in the epidural space, allowing unregulated flow of CSF into the venous system. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the endovascular management of CVF in patients with SIH. We also focus on the various techniques and devices used in endovascular treatment, as well as the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and alternative treatment options of CVF.

[Spinal Presentation of Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension]

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH), which generally presents as orthostatic headache, is increasingly being identified due to improved imaging technologies and heightened awareness. Many prior studies have reported the characteristic brain MRI findings of SIH. However, recently, focus has shifted to spinal MRI, as SIH is believed to be caused by leakage of cerebrospinal fluid from the spinal dural sac. Advanced techniques such as ultrafast CT myelography and digital subtraction myelography have emerged as useful technique to identify the site of cerebrospinal fluid leakage. In this review, we discuss the diagnosis, spinal MRI findings, imaging techniques, and treatment of SIH.

Effects of caffeine on intracranial pressure and pain perception in freely moving rats

OBJECTIVE

Caffeine, a non-selective adenosine receptor (AR) antagonist, is the most consumed psychostimulant in the world. Caffeine has been suggested to regulate cerebrospinal fluid secretion and is known both to alleviate and to trigger headache; however, its effect on the regulation of intracranial pressure (ICP) is not known. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of caffeine on ICP and nociceptive responses.

METHODS

Female Sprague-Dawley rats were implanted with a novel telemetric device for continuous ICP recordings, which allowed for continuous recordings in freely moving rats. A single dose of caffeine (30 or 120 mg/kg intraperitoneally) was given. In a second group (non-implanted), the acute effects of 30 mg/kg caffeine on periorbital threshold using Von Frey testing and spontaneous behavior were utilized using an automated behavioral registration platform (Laboratory, Animal, Behavior, Observation, Registration and Analysis System) in a randomized cross-over study. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence were used to localize ARs in the choroid plexus.

RESULTS

A single dose of 30 mg/kg caffeine lowered the ICP by 35% at 165 min after administration (saline: 0.16 ± 0.9 vs caffeine: -1.18 ± 0.9 ΔmmHg, p = 0.0098) and lasted up to 12 h. Administration of 120 mg/kg caffeine showed a faster onset of decrease in ICP within 15 min by 50% (p = 0.0018) and lasted up to 12 h. The periorbital pain thresholds were higher after 1 h (saline: 224.6 ± 15.1 vs caffeine: 289.5 ± 8.7 g, p = 0.005) and lasted up to 5 h. Caffeine-treated rats had increased locomotor activity, speed, and changed grooming behavior. Expression of AR1 was found in the choroid plexus.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that caffeine has a lowering effect on ICP as an acute treatment. Interestingly, caffeine acutely caused an increased response in cephalic thresholds supporting hypoalgesic effects. Future studies investigating the beneficial effects of caffeine for elevated ICP are warranted.

Patient experience of spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH): qualitative interviews for concept elicitation

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is an underdiagnosed and debilitating condition caused by a spinal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Although SIH can lead to substantial morbidity and disability, little data exists about patients' perspectives. Without hearing directly from patients, our understanding of the full experience of having SIH is limited, as is our ability to identify and use appropriate patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) within clinical care and research. The purpose of this study was to conduct qualitative interviews with confirmed SIH patients to fully describe their experiences and identify relevant concepts to measure.

METHODS

Patients were recruited from an SIH specialty clinic at a large, U.S.-based healthcare center. Patients undergoing an initial consultation who were ≥ 18 years old, English-speaking, met the International Classification of Headache Disorders-3 criteria for SIH, and had a brain MRI with contrast that was positive for SIH were eligible to participate. During semi-structured qualitative interviews with a trained facilitator, participants were asked to describe their current SIH symptoms, how their experiences with SIH had changed over time, and the aspects of SIH that they found most bothersome. Analysts reviewed the data, created text summaries, and wrote analytic reports.

RESULTS

Fifteen participants completed interviews. Common symptoms reported by patients included headache, tinnitus, ear fullness/pressure/pain, and neck or interscapular pain. Patients reported that their symptoms worsened over the course of their day and with activity. The most bothersome aspect of SIH was disruption to daily activities and limits to physical activities/exercise, which were severe. With regard to symptoms, the most bothersome and impactful included physical pain and discomfort (including headache), as well as fatigue.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients reported a diverse set of symptoms that were attributed to SIH, with devastating impacts on functioning and high levels of disability. Researchers considering use of PROMs for SIH should consider inclusion of both symptom scales and aspects of functioning, and future work should focus on evaluating the validity of existing measures for this patient population using rigorous qualitative and quantitative methods in diverse samples. Additionally, these data can be used to assist clinicians in understanding the impacts of SIH on patients.

Cerebrospinal Venous Fistula Presenting with Cognitive Decline: Systematic Literature Review and Report of Two Cases

OBJECTIVE

A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) venous fistula (CVF) is an aberrant connection between the subarachnoid space and a vein resulting in CSF loss. The presentation and management of CVF with cognitive decline is incompletely understood.

METHODS

A systematic review was completed following the PRISMA guidelines. Articles that included at least 1 case of imaging-confirmed CVF with details on patient treatment were included. A separate review of cases of patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) or dementia symptoms was also completed.

RESULTS

Ten CVF articles (69 patients; average age, 51.5 years) and 5 SIH with FTD or dementia articles (n = 41; average age, 55.9 years) were identified. Only 1 patients with CVF with cognitive abnormalities was identified. The most common symptom was headache in both reviews. Brain sag was identified in all patients, whereas CSF leak was identified in only 2 patients with SIH with FTD or dementia (4.9%). An epidural blood or fibrin glue patch was used in all patients with CVF and in 33 patients with SIH with FTD or dementia. Fifty-five patients with CVF (79.7%) and 27 patients with SIH with FTD or dementia (65.9%) had surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2 cases and literature reviews show the difficulty in diagnosis and treatment of CVF with cognitive decline. Novel imaging techniques should be used in patients with cognitive decline in whom a CSF leak is suspected. Transvenous embolization or surgery should be considered before patching for treatment of CVF-induced brain sag and resulting dementia.

Caffeine for Headaches: Helpful or Harmful? A Brief Review of the Literature

Consumption of caffeine in the diet, both daily and occasional, has a significant biological effect on the nervous system. Caffeine, through various and not yet fully investigated mechanisms, affects headaches. This is especially noticeable in migraine. In other headaches such as hypnic headache, post-dural puncture headache and spontaneous intracranial hypotension, caffeine is an important therapeutic agent. In turn, abrupt discontinuation of chronically used caffeine can cause caffeine-withdrawal headache. Caffeine can both relieve and trigger headaches.

Rare cause of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: Spontaneous intracranial hypotension syndrome: A case report

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension syndrome is a relatively uncommon neurological disorder of unknown etiology with a good prognosis. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is a specific type of cerebrovascular disease caused by multiple etiologies of cerebral venous sinus or vein thrombosis that obstructs cerebral venous return and is associated with impaired cerebrospinal fluid absorption; this entity is rarely seen clinically. Spontaneous intracranial hypotension syndrome is one of the causes of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, and the probability of their combined occurrence is only 1%-2%. As such, it is easily overlooked clinically, thus increasing the difficulty of diagnosis and treatment.

CASE SUMMARY

A 29-year-old young woman presented with postural headache. Lumbar puncture suggested a pressure of 50 mmH₂O (normal 80 mmH₂O-180 mmH₂O), and magnetic resonance imaging cerebral venography suggested thrombosis of the supratentorial sinus. These findings were considered indicative of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis due to spontaneous intracranial hypotension syndrome after ruling out immunological causes, tumor, infection, abnormal coagulation mechanism, and hypercoagulable state, etc. She was treated with rehydration and low-molecular heparin anticoagulation for 15 d, and follow-up magnetic resonance imaging cerebral venography suggested resolution of the thrombus. The patient had complete improvement of her headache symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension syndrome is one of the rare causes of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, which is frequently misdiagnosed or missed and deserves consideration by clinicians during differential diagnosis. Dehydration should be avoided in such patients, and early rehydration and anticoagulation therapy are effective treatment options.

Epidural Blood Patching in Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension-Do we Really Seal the Leak?

PURPOSE

Epidural blood patch (EBP) is a minimally invasive treatment for spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). Follow-up after EBP primarily relies on clinical presentation and data demonstrating successful sealing of the underlying spinal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak are lacking. Our aim was to evaluate the rate of successfully sealed spinal CSF leaks in SIH patients after non-targeted EBP.

METHODS

Patients with SIH and a confirmed spinal CSF leak who had been treated with non-targeted EBP were retrospectively analyzed. Primary outcome was persistence of CSF leak on spine MRI or intraoperatively. Secondary outcome was change in clinical symptoms after EBP.

RESULTS

In this study 51 SIH patients (mean age, 47 ± 13 years; 33/51, 65% female) treated with non-targeted EBP (mean, 1.3 EBPs per person; range, 1-4) were analyzed. Overall, 36/51 (71%) patients had a persistent spinal CSF leak after EBP on postinterventional imaging and/or intraoperatively. In a best-case scenario accounting for missing data, the success rate of sealing a spinal CSF leak with an EBP was 29%. Complete or substantial symptom improvement in the short term was reported in 45/51 (88%), and in the long term in 17/51 (33%) patients.

CONCLUSION

Non-targeted EBP is an effective symptomatic treatment providing short-term relief in a substantial number of SIH patients; however, successful sealing of the underlying spinal CSF leak by EBP is rare, which might explain the high rate of delayed symptom recurrence. The potentially irreversible and severe morbidity associated with long-standing intracranial hypotension supports permanent closure of the leak.

Intracranial hypotension in a breast cancer patient treated with epidural blood patches

We report the case of a patient with metastatic breast cancer who presented with an orthostatic headache. After a comprehensive diagnostic workup including MRI and lumbar puncture, we maintained the diagnosis of intracranial hypotension (IH). The patient was therefore treated with two consecutive non targeted epidural blood patches, resulting in the remission of IH symptoms for 6 months. IH in cancer patients is a rarer cause of headache than carcinomatous meningitis. As the diagnosis can be made by standard examination and the treatment is relatively simple and effective, IH deserves to be better known by oncologists.

The "Crossing Collection Sign": A Diagnostic Tool on Spine Magnetic Resonance Imaging For Localizing Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to determine whether the site of "cross" between ventral and dorsal spinal longitudinal extradural CSF collections (SLECs) seen on magnetic resonance imaging during initial workup of patients with suspected CSF leaks can predict the subsequently confirmed leakage site on computed tomography myelography or surgical repair.

METHODS

This was an institutional review board-approved, retrospective study performed from 2006 to 2021. Patients with SLECs who underwent total spine magnetic resonance imaging at our institution, followed by myelography and/or surgical repair for CSF leak, were included. Patients with incomplete workup including lack of computed tomography myelography and/or surgical repair and patients severely motion degraded imaging were excluded from our study. The site of cross between ventral and dorsal SLECs was defined as the "crossing collection sign" and was compared with the anatomically confirmed site of leak on myelography and/or at surgical repair.

RESULTS

Thirthy-eight patients met inclusion criteria with 18 females and 11 males ranging in age from 27 to 60 years (median, 40 years; interquartile range, 14 years). The crossing collection sign was seen in 76% of patients (n = 29). The distributions of confirmed CSF leak were as follows: cervical (n = 9), thoracic (n = 17), and lumbar spine (n = 3). The crossing collection sign predicted the site of CSF leak in 14 of 29 patients (48%) and was within 3-vertebral segments in 26 of 29 cases (90%).

CONCLUSIONS

The crossing collection sign can help prospectively identify spinal regions with highest likelihood for CSF leak in patients with SLECs. This can potentially help optimize the more invasive subsequent steps in the workup for these patients, including dynamic myelography and surgical exploration for repair.

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension: from cerebral venous thrombosis to neurosurgical treatment: a case series experience from a Brazilian tertiary health care center

BACKGROUND

 Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is a secondary cause of headache and an underdiagnosed disease. The clinical presentation can be highly variable. It typically presents with isolated classic orthostatic headache complaints, but patients can develop significant complications such as cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT).

OBJECTIVE

 To report 3 cases of SIH diagnosis admitted and treated in a tertiary-level neurology ward.

METHODS

 Review of the medical files of three patients and description of clinical and surgical outcomes.

RESULTS

 Three female patients with SIH with a mean age of 25.6 ± 10.0 years old. The patients had orthostatic headache, and one of them presented with somnolence and diplopia because of a CVT. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) ranges from normal findings to classic findings of SIH as pachymeningeal enhancement and downward displacement of the cerebellar tonsils. Spine MRI showed abnormal epidural fluid collections in all cases, and computed tomography (CT) myelography could determine an identifiable cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak in only one patient. One patient received a conservative approach, and the other two were submitted to open surgery with laminoplasty. Both of them had uneventful recovery and remission in surgery follow-up.

CONCLUSION

 The diagnosis and management of SIH are still a challenge in neurology practice. We highlight in the present study severe cases of incapacitating SIH, complication with CVT, and good outcomes with neurosurgical treatment.

Treating Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension with an Anesthetic Modality: The Role of the Epidural Blood Patch

Background: Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is a rare syndrome characterized by heterogeneity of presentation and prognosis, which can occasionally result in serious complications, such as the formation of subdural hematomas (SDHs). This case series aims to emphasize that SIH remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge; it can present with a broad clinical spectrum of symptoms, can lead to SDH and, if conservative treatment fails, an epidural blood patch (EBP) is a viable treatment option. Although the exact etiology of SIH is not known, it is believed to be due to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak or a low CSF pressure. Case Series: Three patients (two males and one female) with ages ranging between 38 and 53 years old who presented with complaints of not only an orthostatic headache, but also a variety of symptoms of SIH, including the formation of two SDHs in one of them, were included in this series. These patients did not respond to conservative management and, subsequently, given the clinical and radiological evidence of SIH, were referred to the Anesthesiology Department for an EBP. Diagnostic workup was facilitated by imaging modalities, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and spinal cord, prior to the EBP. All three patients were subjected to an EBP with an 18-gauge epidural needle. A total of between 30 and 43 mL of autologous blood was collected from the patients and was injected into the epidural space under strict aseptic conditions. Two lumbar (L₁-L₂, L₂-L₃) EBPs and one thoracic (T₁₁-T₁₂) EBP were performed on the three patients, respectively. All patients reported complete resolution of symptoms following the EBPs, while MRI improved substantially. Conclusions: This report describes three cases of SIH with CSF leak originating from the cervical, the thoracic and the lumbar level. The EBP restored CSF pressure and relieved the patients' persistent symptoms. MRI helps in revealing indirect signs of a low volume of CSF, though it may not be possible to locate the actual site of the leak. In conclusion, EBP is a well-accepted and beneficial treatment modality for SIH when conventional measures fail.

A case of spontaneous intracranial hypotension in a 45-year-old male with headache, behavior changes and altered mental status

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension is a rare disease that results from low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume caused by leakage of CSF from the spine in the absence of lumbar puncture, spine surgery, or intervention. The most common presentation is the headache that is usually but not invariably orthostatic. The underlying pathology is a CSF leak resulting from dural weakness involving the nerve root sleeves, ventral dural tears associated with calcified disc herniations, or CSF venous fistula. In severe cases, neuropsychiatric symptoms and changes in mental status may develop. Some case reports also mention gait disturbances, slurred speech, and urinary incontinence. The constellation of neuropsychiatric symptoms similar to behavior variant frontotemporal dementia in the presence of "brain sag" on MRI is known as frontotemporal brain sagging syndrome, first described by Wicklund et al. (4). The disease presents a diagnostic challenge to the primary care physicians, who are the first to see these patients. Brain and spine imaging is key to diagnoses but requires a high index of suspicion, as very rarely are all classic findings of intracranial hypotension present in the same patient. Here we discuss a case of spontaneous intracranial hypotension in a 45-year-old male patient who presented with headache, drowsiness, incoherent speech, behavior symptoms, and altered mental status.

Seizures and Consciousness Disorder Secondary to Intracranial Hypotension After Spinal Surgery: A Case Report and Literature Review

Rationale

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage is a common condition after spinal surgery and is also the most common cause of intracranial hypotension. Intracranial hypotension (IH) is typically characterized by an orthostatic headache with associated nausea, vomiting, tinnitus, vertigo, hypoacusis, neck stiffness, and photophobia. There have been limited case reports describing surgery-associated IH presenting with seizures and disorder of consciousness. Due to the atypia of symptoms, these clinical manifestations are usually ignored or even misdiagnosed. As a result, clinicians face a significant challenge in detecting IH early and understanding its various clinical presentations. Meanwhile, we summarize the cases of IH presenting as seizures in recent years, including its clinical characteristics and effective treatment, which will be very helpful for the early diagnosis of IH.

Patient concerns

A 72-year-old Chinese male patient developed status epilepticus, a disorder of consciousness, and quadriplegia when he finished spinal surgery, although he had no previous seizures or any seizure risk factors.

Diagnosis

After MRI and CT examination, subdural hygromas were found under both sides of the skull, and combined with the clinical manifestations of the patient, intracranial hypotension due to cerebrospinal fluid leakage was diagnosed.

Interventions

In the early stage, we carried out strict perioperative critical care for the patient. Trendelenburg position was conducted to relieve intracranial hypotension. The dural repair surgery was performed after the diagnosis of CSF leakage.

Outcomes

Seizures in the patient were resolved. Three months after discharge, he was gradually returning to normal life.

Lessons

One possible cause of unexplained seizures and disorder of consciousness after spinal surgery is cerebrospinal fluid leakage associated with intracranial hypotension syndrome. Trendelenburg position and dural repair surgery are effective ways to relieve intracranial hypotension and associated symptoms. Better awareness of the association between IH (intracranial hypotension) and seizures may help us improve early recognition of the syndrome.

Efficacy of epidural blood patching or surgery in spontaneous intracranial hypotension: an evidence map protocol

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is a debilitating disorder caused by non-iatrogenic spinal cerebrospinal fluid leaks. SIH is increasingly recognized as an important treatable cause of secondary headaches. Treatment involves either epidural blood patching or surgery, which have considerable differences in their adverse event rates, recovery times, and cost. The objective of this evidence map is to understand the breadth of studies that investigate SIH treatment efficacy and to identify knowledge gaps to inform future research.

METHODS

This review will consider experimental, observational, and systematic review studies that assess the efficacy of epidural blood patching and surgery for the treatment of patients with SIH. Individual case studies, clinical guidelines, editorials, protocols, and studies that do not assess an intervention will not be included. English language studies will be included without limitation based on the date of publication. Databases to be searched include MEDLINE® (via Ovid), EMBASE (via Elsevier), and Web of Science™ (via Clarivate). Study selection will be performed independently by two investigators with extracted data to include study type, the number of patients included, patient descriptors, intervention characteristics, and outcome measure used. Data will be presented through a narrative summary aided by tabular and graphical formats in a manner that aligns with the objective of the evidence mapping review.

DISCUSSION

The overarching goal of this evidence map is to provide an improved understanding of the breadth of studies investigating SIH treatment efficacy in the literature and to thereby identify knowledge gaps that can inform future research directions.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

OSF Registry https://osf.io/nwju7 .

Early and Delayed Rebound Intracranial Hypertension following Epidural Blood Patch in a Case of Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension

Background. Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is a secondary headache that has been attributed to a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. It may resolve spontaneously or require conservative treatment. An epidural blood patch (EBP) with autologous blood is performed in cases exhibiting an inadequate response to conservative methods. Rebound intracranial hypertension (RIH) can develop following an EBP in up to 27% of patients. It is characterized by a change in the headache features and is often accompanied by nausea, blurred vision, and diplopia. Symptoms commonly begin within the first 36 hours, but could develop over days to weeks. It is important to differentiate this rebound phenomenon from unimproved SIH, as the treatment options differ. Case Presentation. Here, we present an interesting case of a patient with SIH who was treated with EBP and developed both immediate RIH after 24 hours and delayed RIH 3 weeks following EBP. Conclusions. Following EBP for treatment of SIH, new onset of headache having a different pattern and location should always be monitored for the occurrence of RIH. A lumbar puncture should be done if the symptoms of elevated CSF pressure become intolerable or if the diagnosis is uncertain. Lack of early diagnosis and treatment and differentiation from SIH can cause complications and could affect the optic nerves.

Headache as a Neurologic Manifestation of Systemic Disease

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

Recent update on epidural blood patch

Epidural blood patch (EBP) is the injection of autologous blood into the epidural space with the intent of sealing off a dural tear and stopping the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). EBP may cause an increase in intracranial pressure due to the mass effect of the injected blood volume, causing CSF from the spinal compartment to enter the intracranial compartment. EBP is usually considered in the management of moderate to severe headache (HA) attributed to low CSF pressure, such as post-dural puncture HA (PDPH), CSF fistula HA, and HA attributed to spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) that does not respond to conservative management. However, prophylactic administration of EBP after accidental dural puncture can hardly be substantiated at present. EBP is generally safe but may rarely be associated with serious complications. Therefore, it should be carefully planned and performed under C-arm fluoroscopic guidance. Although many studies on PDPH and SIH have been conducted until recently, only few reviews have summarized the effectiveness of EBP from the perspective of a pain physician. This article reviews the current literature on the indication, contraindication, procedural consideration, post-procedural management, outcomes, and complications of EBP and the considerations for EBP in patients with COVID-19.

Incidence of Spinal CSF Leakage on CT Myelography in Patients with Nontraumatic Intracranial Subdural Hematoma

The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the incidence of spinal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks in patients with nontraumatic intracranial subdural hematoma (SDH) and determine clinical parameters favoring such leaks. This retrospective study was approved by the institutional review board. Patients diagnosed with nontraumatic intracranial SDH who underwent computed tomography (CT) myelography between January 2012 and March 2018 were selected. 60 patients (male: female, 39:21; age range, 20–82 years) were enrolled and divided into CSF leak-positive and CSF leak-negative groups according to CT myelography data. Clinical findings were statistically compared between the two groups. Spinal CSF leak was observed in 80% (48/60) of patients, and it was significantly associated with an age of <69 years (p = 0.006). However, patients aged ≥69 years also had a tendency to exhibit spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH)-induced nontraumatic intracranial SDH (60.87%; 14/23). Therefore, CT myelography is recommended to be performed for the evaluation of possible SIH in patients with nontraumatic intracranial SDH, particularly those aged <69 years. Patients aged ≥69 years are also good candidates for CT myelography because SIH tends to occur even in this age group.

Identification and surgical ligation of spinal CSF-venous fistula

Background:

CSF-venous fistulas (CVF) may cause incapacitating positional headaches resulting from spontaneous intracranial hypotension/hypovolemia (SIH). Their etiology remains unknown, although unrecognized local trauma may precipitate SIH. In addition, they are diagnostically challenging despite various imaging tools available. Here, we present CVF identification using magnetic resonance myelography (MRM) and elaborate on their surgical management techniques.

Methods:

Retrospective charts of confirmed and treated CVF patients with attention to their diagnostic imaging modalities and management techniques were further reviewed.

Results:

Six cases were identified of which three are presented here. There were two females and one male patient. All had fistulas on the left side. Two were at T7-T8 while the third was at T9-T10 level. Two underwent hemilaminotomies at the T7-T8 while the third underwent a foraminotomy at T9 level to access the fistula site. All CVF were closed with a combination of an aneurysm clip and a silk tie. On follow-up, all had complete resolution of symptoms with no evidence of recurrence.

Conclusion:

Of the various imaging modalities available, MRM is particularly sensitive in localizing CVF spinal nerve level and their laterality. In addition, the technique of aneurysm clip ligation and placement of a silk tie is curative for these lesions.

50th anniversary of computed tomography: past and future applications in clinical neuroscience

Purpose: It has been 50 years since computed tomography was introduced to the worldwide neurologic medical and surgical community. In that time, tremendous advances in computer software and hardware, as well as creative changes in computerized tomographic (CT) hardware and tube technology, have dramatically improved the temporal and spatial resolution of CT. In this paper, I address what I feel are some of the most important impacts of CT in the field of clinical neuroscience over the last 50 years, as well as potential applications of CT that are on the horizon.

Approach: I have recounted from literature, colleagues, and personal recollection the historical impact of CT on neuroradiology practice and what appear to be near-term future applications.

Conclusions: Therapeutic applications beyond diagnosis, such as image-guided procedures, radiation, and surgical planning, and development of the field of theranostics have emerged and further increased the need for faster and more precise CT imaging. The integration of machine learning into the acquisition chain and radiologist tool kit has great implications for standardization, analysis, and diagnosis worldwide.

Post-dural puncture pseudomeningocele ("arachnoid bleb"): An underrecognized etiology of spontaneous intracranial hypotension symptomatology

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is an important secondary cause of a persistent headache syndrome, classically presenting as sudden onset debilitating positional headaches related to reduced intracranial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume. Current understanding of SIH pathogenesis recognizes three underlying etiologies: dural tear, meningeal diverticulum, and CSF-venous fistula, with a fourth broad category of indeterminate/unknown etiologies. Post-dural puncture headache (PDPH) is a well-known and common complication of dural puncture, typically remitting spontaneously within two weeks of onset or with autologous epidural blood patch, though with some patients developing complex and difficult to manage chronic PDPH. Herein, we present a case of chronic PDPH resulting in SIH symptomatology secondary to a post-dural puncture pseudomeningocele, or "arachnoid bleb," successfully treated with curative surgical intervention. Increasing awareness of additional potential etiologies of SIH symptomatology will allow for improved detection for targeted definitive therapy, ultimately improving patient outcomes including quality of life in this debilitating and difficult to manage secondary headache syndrome.

Abnormal [18F]FDG PET/MRI findings in paraspinal structures of patients with suspected cerebrospinal fluid leak

A combination of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and radionuclide cisternography are typically used to locate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. However, the site of leakage cannot be determined, making treatment more difficult. Therefore, more sensitive imaging tools are needed. A whole-body [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/MRI was conducted on six patients with suspected CSF leak and the resulting images were reviewed in comparison with those from six healthy controls. Paraspinal regions of focally increased uptake of [18F]FDG were quantified using maximum standardized uptake values (SUVmax) and compared to the SUVmax of corresponding regions in the healthy controls. All six patients with suspected CSF leak showed paraspinal regions of significantly greater [18F]FDG uptake compared to the corresponding areas in controls (P < 0.05). Two patients treated with local injections (epidural blood patches and/or epidural fibrin patches) on the site of abnormal PET/MRI findings reported temporary but significant improvement in symptoms. Our results suggest [18F]FDG PET/MRI is sensitive to abnormalities potentially due to suspected CSF leak, which are not necessarily visible on conventional MRI alone or by the standard-of-care imaging methods.

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension presenting with progressive cognitive decline

A 63-year-old woman presented with headache, progressive somnolence, neurocognitive decline and urinary incontinence through a year. Medical history was unremarkable except for hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia. Neurological examination was normal. Brain MRI showed findings typical for spontaneous intracranial hypotension (subdural fluid collection, pachymeningeal enhancement, brain sagging) and pituitary tumour. The patient's complaints improved dramatically but temporarily after treatment with each of repeated targeted as well as non-targeted blood patches and a trial with continuous intrathecal saline infusion. Extensive work up including repeated MRI-scans, radioisotope cisternographies, CT and T2-weighted MR myelography could not localise the leakage, but showed minor root-cysts at three levels. Finally, lateral decubitus digital subtraction dynamic myelography with subsequent CT myelography identified a tiny dural venous fistula at the fourth thoracic level. After surgical venous ligation, the patient fully recovered. Awareness of spontaneous dural leaks and their heterogeneous clinical picture are important and demands an extensive workup.

Cerebrospinal Fluid-Venous Fistulas: A Systematic Review and Examination of Individual Patient Data

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is usually caused by a spinal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. CSF-venous fistula is an underdiagnosed cause of spinal CSF leak, as it is challenging to identify on myelography.

OBJECTIVE

To review existing literature to summarize common presentations, diagnostic imaging modalities, and current treatment strategies for CSF-venous fistulas.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review using PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify studies discussing CSF-venous fistulas. Titles and abstracts were screened. Studies meeting prespecified inclusion criteria were reviewed in full.

RESULTS

Of 180 articles identified, 16 articles met inclusion criteria. Individual patient data was acquired from 7 studies reporting on 18 patients. CSF-venous fistula most frequently presented as positional headache. Digital subtraction myelography provided greatest detection of CSF-venous fistula in the lateral decubitus position and detected CSF-venous fistula in all individual patient cases. Dynamic computed tomography (CT) myelogram enabled detection and differentiation of CSF-venous fistulas from low-flow epidural leaks. The majority of fistulas were in the thoracic spine and slightly more common on the right. Epidural blood patch (EBP) provided temporary or no relief in all individual patients. Resolution or improvement of clinical symptoms and radiologic normalization were observed in all surgically treated patients.

CONCLUSION

Although rare, CSF-venous fistula is an important cause of spinal CSF leak contributing to SIH. Dynamic CT myelogram and digital subtraction myelography, particularly in the lateral decubitus position, are the most accurate and effective diagnostic imaging modalities. EBPs often provide only transient relief, while surgical management is preferred.

Clinical Outcomes Following Surgical Ligation of Cerebrospinal Fluid-Venous Fistula in Patients With Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension: A Prospective Case Series

BACKGROUND

Cerebrospinal fluid-venous fistula (CVF) is a recently described cause of spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). Surgical ligation of CVF has been reported, but clinical outcomes are not well described.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the clinical efficacy of surgical ligation for treatment of CVF.

METHODS

Outcomes metrics were collected in this prospective, single-arm, cross-sectional investigation. Inclusion criteria were as follows: diagnosis of SIH, demonstration of CVF on myelography, and surgical treatment of CVF. Pre- and postoperative headache severity was assessed with the Headache Impact Test (HIT-6), a validated headache scale ranging from 36 (asymptomatic) to 78 (most severe). Patient satisfaction with treatment was measured with Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC).

RESULTS

Twenty subjects were enrolled, with mean postoperative follow-up at 16.0 ± 9.7 mo. All CVFs were located in the thoracic region (between T4 and T12). Pretreatment headache severity was high (mean HIT-6 scores 65 ± 6). Surgical treatment resulted in marked improvement in headache severity (mean HIT-6 change of -21 ± -9, mean postoperative HIT-6 of 44 ± 8). Of subjects with baseline headache scores in the most severe category, 83% showed a major improvement in severity (transition to the lowest 2 severity categories) after surgery. All subjects (100%) reported clinically significant levels of satisfaction with treatment (PGIC score 6 or 7); 90% reported the highest level of satisfaction. There were no short- or long-term complications or 30-d readmissions.

CONCLUSION

Surgical ligation is highly effective for the treatment of SIH due to CVF. Larger controlled trials with longer follow-up period are indicated to better assess its long-term efficacy and safety profile.

Headache due to Bilateral Subacute Subdural Hematomas following Intracranial Hypotension Caused by Cervical Disc Herniation

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is caused by spinal leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and typically causes orthostatic headache which is relieved by lying in a recumbent position. We describe the case of a 44-year-old male suffering from orthostatic headaches accompanied by symptomatic cervical disc herniation, for which he had an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). Computerized tomography of the brain at the emergency department 1 week after this procedure showed bilateral subacute subdural hematomas. In retrospect, the positional headache had been present for 3 months prior to the ACDF, and magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine prior to the ACDF already showed signs of an extradural CSF collection indicating intracranial hypotension. This case highlights the possibility of SIH caused by a spinal dural leak due to cervical disc herniation.

Treatment of spontaneous intracranial hypotension: experiences in a UK regional neurosciences Centre

A robust treatment paradigm for spontaneous intracranial hypotension has yet to be agreed upon. We present retrospective data from the patient cohort at our UK regional neurosciences centre from 2010-2020 and describe our locally developed treatment pathway.Seventy-three patients were identified: 31 men and 42 women; mean age was 42 years. The majority presented with a headache of variable duration, and most had positive imaging. Very few patients (7%) responded to conservative treatment. Sixty-six underwent epidural blood patching, with 39 (59%) having a good response. Twenty-three patients underwent myelography and targeted treatment (injection of fibrin sealant at the leak site), with 13 (57%) showing a good response. One patient had successful surgery. The relapse rate after response to epidural blood patching was 10%, and after response to targeted treatment was 23%. Most patients who relapsed responded to repeated treatments.The outcome data for our diverse patient cohort shows the success of a staged approach to treatment. Relapse rates are low, and surgery is only rarely required. We use these data to inform our discussions with patients, and present them here to enable other centres to develop robust investigation and treatment paradigms of their own.

Predictors Associated with Outcomes of Epidural Blood Patch in Patients with Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension

An autologous epidural blood patch (EBP) is a mainstay of treatment in patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). EBP, however, is less effective for SIH than post-dural puncture headaches. Therefore, patients with SIH frequently require an additional EBP. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with poor response to EBP. This single-center retrospective observational study used the institutional registry records of 321 patients who underwent EBP between September 2001 and March 2016. Patients were divided into two groups, a poor responder group, consisting of patients who underwent EBP at least three times or more, and a good responder group of patients who experienced sufficient symptom relief after two or fewer EBP. The demographic characteristics, clinical features, radiologic findings, procedural data, and laboratory data were analyzed. Univariate analysis showed that the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR; p = 0.004) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (p = 0.015) were significantly lower in poor than in good responders. Multivariate analysis found that NLR was the only independent factor associated with a poor response (odds ratio = 0.720; p = 0.008). These findings indicate that a low NLR was associated with three or more EBP administrations for the sufficient improvement of symptoms in patients with SIH.

Magnetic resonance imaging findings and clinical management of suspected intracranial hypovolemia after transfrontal craniotomy in a dog

OBJECTIVE

To report the diagnosis and clinical management of a case of suspected intracranial hypovolemia (IH) in a dog after resection of a large fronto-olfactory chordoid meningioma.

STUDY DESIGN

Clinical case report.

ANIMAL

One 8-year-old border collie with forebrain neurological signs caused by a fronto-olfactory extra-axial mass diagnosed by using MRI.

METHODS

The dog underwent bilateral transfrontal craniotomy for excision of the mass by using ultrasonic aspiration. Immediate postsurgical MRI revealed complete gross resection with no evidence of early-onset complications such as edema, hemorrhage, mass effect, or pneumoencephalus. However, diffuse symmetric meningeal thickening and contrast enhancement were noted. No complications were noted during surgery or while under anesthesia.

RESULTS

Neurological deterioration was observed postoperatively. No abnormalities were detected systemically. Thus, early MRI-confirmed findings and neurological deterioration were suspected to be caused by IH. Conservative treatment consisting of bed rest, gabapentin, and intravenous theophylline was then initiated in addition to steroids, antiepileptic drugs, and antibiotics. A gradual neurological improvement was observed, and the dog was discharged completely ambulatory with moderate proprioceptive ataxia 15 days after surgery.

CONCLUSION

The clinical and MRI-confirmed findings reported here are consistent with IH, a well-described syndrome in man. This is the first report of a dog with MRI-confirmed findings consistent with IH describing subsequent response to medical management.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Intracranial hypovolemia after craniotomy should be considered when there is neurological deterioration and characteristic MRI-confirmed findings.

Deep cerebral venous blood flow monitoring by transcranial doppler ultrasonography in the treatment of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: A case report

We report the case of a patient in whom we used deep cerebral venous blood flow monitoring by transcranial Doppler ultrasonography to monitor the effect of anticoagulation therapy on cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. The blood flow velocity of deep cerebral veins increased in the early stage of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, then gradually decreased to the normal level as the disease improved. Moreover, the recovery of the blood flow velocity of deep cerebral veins occurred earlier than the morphological recovery demonstrated by magnetic resonance venography.

Spontaneous spinal cerebrospinal fluid-venous fistulas in patients with orthostatic headaches and normal conventional brain and spine imaging

OBJECTIVE

To determine the occurrence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-venous fistulas, a type of spinal CSF leak that cannot be detected with routine computerized tomography myelography, among patients with orthostatic headaches but normal brain and spine magnetic resonance imaging.

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous spinal CSF leaks cause orthostatic headaches but their detection may require sophisticated spinal imaging techniques.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study of patients with orthostatic headaches and normal brain and conventional spine imaging who underwent digital subtraction myelography (DSM) to look for CSF-venous fistulas, between May 2018 and May 2020, at a quaternary referral center for spontaneous intracranial hypotension.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 60 consecutive patients (46 women and 14 men) was 46 years (range, 13-83 years), who had been suffering from orthostatic headaches between 1 and 180 months (mean, 43 months). DSM demonstrated a spinal CSF-venous fistula in 6 (10.0%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.8-20.5%) of the 60 patients. The mean age of these five women and one man was 50 years (range, 41-59 years). Spinal CSF-venous fistulas were identified in 6 (19.4%; 95% CI: 7.5-37.5%) of 31 patients with spinal meningeal diverticula but in none (0%; 95% CI: 0-11.9%) of the 29 patients without spinal meningeal diverticula (p = 0.024). All CSF-venous fistulas were located in the thoracic spine. All patients underwent uneventful surgical ligation of the fistula. Complete and sustained resolution of symptoms was obtained in five patients, while in one patient, partial recurrence of symptoms was noted 3 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Concerns about a spinal CSF leak should not be dismissed in patients suffering from orthostatic headaches when conventional imaging turns out to be normal, even though the yield of identifying a CSF-venous fistula is low.

CSF-Venous Fistula

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide an update on recent developments in the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of CSF-venous fistula (CVF).

RECENT FINDING

CVF is a recently recognized cause of spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH), an important secondary headache, in which an aberrant connection is formed between the spinal subarachnoid space and an adjacent spinal epidural vein permitting unregulated loss of CSF into the circulatory system. CVFs often occur without a concurrent epidural fluid collection; therefore, CVF should be considered as a potential etiology for patients with SIH symptomatology but without an identifiable CSF leak. Imaging plays a critical role in the detection and localization of CVFs, with a number of imaging techniques and provocative maneuvers described in the literature to facilitate their localization for targeted and definitive treatment. Increasing awareness and improving the localization of CVFs can allow for improved outcomes in the SIH patient population. Future prospective studies are needed to determine the diagnostic performance of currently available imaging techniques as well as their ability to inform workup and guide treatment decisions.

Spinal CSF-Venous Fistulas in Morbidly and Super Obese Patients with Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Spinal CSF-venous fistulas are increasingly recognized as the cause of spontaneous intracranial hypotension. Here, we describe the challenges in the care of patients with CSF-venous fistulas who are morbidly or super obese.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A review was undertaken of all patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension and a body mass index of >40 who underwent digital subtraction myelography in the lateral decubitus position to look for CSF-venous fistulas.

RESULTS

Eight patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension with a body mass index  of >40 underwent lateral decubitus digital subtraction myelography. The mean age of these 5 women and 3 men was 53 years (range, 45 to 68 years). Six patients were morbidly obese (body mass indexes = 40.2, 40.6, 41, 41.8, 45.4, and 46.9), and 2 were super obese (body mass indexes = 53.7 and 56.3). Lumbar puncture showed an elevated opening pressure in 5 patients (26.5-47 cm H₂O). The combination of an elevated opening pressure and normal conventional spine imaging findings resulted in a misdiagnosis (midbrain glioma and demyelinating disease, respectively) in 2 patients. Prior treatment included surgical nerve root ligation for suspected CSF-venous fistula in 3 patients. Digital subtraction myelography demonstrated a CSF-venous fistula in 6 patients (75%). Rebound high-pressure headache occurred in all 6 patients following surgical ligation of the fistula, and papilledema developed in 3.

CONCLUSIONS

In our series, opening pressure was generally elevated in patients with morbid or super obesity. The yield of identifying CSF-venous fistulas with digital subtraction myelography in this patient population can approach that of the nonobese patient population. These patients may be at higher risk of developing rebound high-pressure headaches and papilledema.

Management of spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid hypovolemia-associated massive chronic subdural hematoma with reinforced restriction of physical activity: report of three cases

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid hypovolemia (SCFH) is an uncommon entity in neurosurgical practice. Without early recognition and management, some patients with SCFH can develop chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). Generally, management of patients with SCFH without CSDH is relatively straightforward. However, this circumstance becomes more complicated in patients with concurrent CSDH. Treatment measures simply based on the respective management principles of SCFH and CSDH are insufficient or even disastrous. Our previous study showed that reinforced restriction of physical activity was a promising strategy in managing CSDH in the general population. We applied this strategy in three consecutive patients with SCFH and massive CSDH. All of the patients experienced complete resolution of CSDH. This study not only enriches the basic theory of formation and progression of CSDH, but also demonstrates that reinforced restriction of physical activity could be treated as an alternative or adjuvant management of CSDH secondary to SCFH.

Post-traumatic cephalalgia

After traumatic brain injury (TBI), a host of symptoms of varying severity and associated functional impairment may occur. One of the most commonly encountered and challenging to treat are the post-traumatic cephalalgias. Post-traumatic cephalalgia (PTC) or headache is often conceptualized as a single entity as currently classified using the ICHD-3. Yet, the terminology applicable to the major primary, non-traumatic, headache disorders such as migraine, tension headache, and cervicogenic headache are often used to specify the specific type of headache the patients experiences seemingly disparate from the unitary definition of post-traumatic headache adopted by ICHD-3. More complex post-traumatic presentations attributable to brain injury as well as other headache conditions are important to consider as well as other causes such as medication overuse headache and medication induced headache. Treatment of any post-traumatic cephalalgia must be optimized by understanding that there may be more than one headache pain generator, that comorbid traumatic problems may contribute to the pain presentation and that pre-existing conditions could impact both symptom complaint, clinical presentation and recovery. Any treatment for PTC must harmonize with ongoing medical and psychosocial aspects of recovery.

Frontotemporal brain sagging syndrome: Craniospinal hypovolemia secondary to a T6-T7 cerebrospinal fluid-venous fistula

Background:

The frontotemporal brain sagging syndrome (FTBSS) is defined as an insidious/progressive decline in behavior and executive functions, hypersomnolence, and orthostatic headaches attributed to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hypovolemia. Here, a T6 CSF-venous fistula (e.g., between the subarachnoid CSF and a paraspinal vein) resulted in a CSF leak responsible for craniospinal hypovolemia.

Case Description:

A 56-year-old male started with orthostatic headaches and fatigue after scuba diving. His symptoms included progressive, vertigo, tinnitus, nausea, lack of judgment, inappropriate behavior, memory dysfunction, apathy, tremor, orofacial dyskinesia, dysarthria, dysphagia, and hypersomnolence. The lumbar puncture revealed an opening pressure of 0 cm H2O. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings included brain sagging, bilateral temporal lobe herniation, and pachymeningeal enhancement. The computed tomography (CT) myelogram showed a thoracic diverticulum and a CSF-venous leak at the T6-T7 level. Surgery, which comprised a T6-T7 laminotomy, allowed for dissecting, clipping, and ligating the diverticulum/fistula. The patient improved postoperatively (e.g., cognitive, behavioral, and brainstem symptoms). The follow-up MRI’s showed the reversion of the sagging index/uncal herniation.

Conclusion:

The FTBSS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of an early onset frontotemporal dementia. Establishing the diagnosis and localizing the site of a spinal CSF/venous leak warrant both MRI and myelogram CT studies, to pinpoint the CSF leak site for proper surgical clipping/ligation of these thoracic diverticulum/CSF-venous leaks.

Clinical characterization of delayed alcohol-induced headache

Objective

To evaluate the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) criteria and to characterize the clinical phenotype of delayed alcohol-induced headache (DAIH).

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of university students who voluntarily consumed alcohol and experienced headache. Participants completed a survey that included demographic and clinical data. We analyzed the phenotype of the headache, validated ICHD phenotype criteria for DAIH, and analyzed whether participants fulfilled criteria for low-CSF-pressure headache or migraine.

Results

A total of 1,108 participants were included (58% female, mean age 23 years, 41% with headache history). Mean alcohol intake was 158 g; spirits were consumed by 60% of the participants; beer was consumed by 41%; and wine was consumed by 18%. The ICHD criteria for DAIH were met in 95% of the participants. Headache duration (mean, 6.7 hours) correlated with total grams of alcohol consumed (r = 0.62, p = 0.03). Pain was bilateral in 85% of patients with predominantly frontal topography (43%). Pain quality was mainly pressing (60%) or pulsatile (39%) and was aggravated by physical activity in 83% of participants. ICHD low-CSF pressure-headache criteria were fulfilled in 58% of patients, and migraine criteria were fulfilled by 36%.

Conclusions

DAIH is a moderate-intensity headache, is typically bilateral, and presents with frontal predominance and a pressing quality. The phenotype of DAIH combines features of both migraine and low-CSF-pressure headaches.

Imaging of Headaches: Appropriateness and Differential Diagnosis

Headache is prevalent among children, but practitioners may not be familiar with the numerous clinical and imaging guidelines that intend to foster effective care for children with headaches. Here, the guidelines for imaging used in pediatric headache, including sinus and postconcussive headaches, are summarized. An illustrated discussion of differential considerations for imaging findings in children with secondary headaches is provided and highlights the role imaging plays in their diagnosis. [Pediatr Ann. 2020;49(9):e389-e394.].