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Li S, Zhu Y, Lai H, Da X, Liao T, Liu X, Deng F, Chen L. Increased prevalence of vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia in Parkinson's disease and its effect on white matter microstructure and network. Neuroreport 2024; 35:627-637. [PMID: 38813904 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000002046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and analyze its role in gray matter changes, white matter (WM) microstructure and network alterations in PD. This is a cross-sectional study including 341 PD patients. Prevalence of VBD in these PD patients was compared with general population. Diffusion tensor imaging and T1-weighted imaging analysis were performed among 174 PD patients with or without VBD. Voxel-based morphometry analysis was used to estimate gray matter volume changes. Tract-based spatial statistics and region of interest-based analysis were used to evaluate WM microstructure changes. WM network analysis was also performed. Significantly higher prevalence of VBD in PD patients was identified compared with general population. Lower fractional anisotropy and higher diffusivity, without significant gray matter involvement, were found in PD patients with VBD in widespread areas. Decreased global and local efficiency, increased hierarchy, decreased degree centrality at left Rolandic operculum, increased betweenness centrality at left postcentral gyrus and decreased average connectivity strength between and within several modules were identified in PD patients with VBD. VBD is more prevalent in PD patients than general population. Widespread impairments in WM microstructure and WM network involving various motor and nonmotor PD symptom-related areas are more prominent in PD patients with VBD compared with PD patients without VBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sichen Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Frosolini A, Fantin F, Caragli V, Franz L, Fermo S, Inches I, Lovato A, Genovese E, Marioni G, de Filippis C. Vertebrobasilar and Basilar Dolichoectasia Causing Audio-Vestibular Manifestations: A Case Series with a Brief Literature Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13101750. [PMID: 37238234 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13101750] [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: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Audio-vestibular symptoms can arise from vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) and basilar dolichoectasia (BD). Given the dearth of available information, herein we reported our experience with different audio-vestibular disorders (AVDs) observed in a case series of VBD patients. Furthermore, a literature review analyzed the possible relationships between epidemiological, clinical, and neuroradiological findings and audiological prognosis. The electronic archive of our audiological tertiary referral center was screened. All identified patients had a diagnosis of VBD/BD according to Smoker's criteria and a comprehensive audiological evaluation. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for inherent papers published from 1 January 2000 to 1 March 2023. Three subjects were found; all of them had high blood pressure, and only the patient with high-grade VBD showed progressive sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Seven original studies were retrieved from the literature, overall including 90 cases. AVDs were more common in males and present in late adulthood (mean age 65 years, range 37-71), with symptoms including progressive and sudden SNHL, tinnitus, and vertigo. Diagnosis was made using different audiological and vestibular tests and cerebral MRI. Management was hearing aid fitting and long-term follow-up, with only one case of microvascular decompression surgery. The mechanism by which VBD and BD can cause AVD is debated, with the main hypothesis being VIII cranial nerve compression and vascular impairment. Our reported cases suggested the possibility of central auditory dysfunction of retro-cochlear origin due to VBD, followed by rapidly progressing SNHL and/or unnoticed sudden SNHL. More research is needed to better understand this audiological entity and achieve an evidence-based effective treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Frosolini
- Phoniatris and Audiology Unit, Department of Neuroscience DNS, University of Padova, 31100 Treviso, Italy
- Maxillofacial Surgery Unit, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Francesco Fantin
- Phoniatris and Audiology Unit, Department of Neuroscience DNS, University of Padova, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Valeria Caragli
- Audiology Unit, Department of Diagnostic, Clinical and Public Health Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Leonardo Franz
- Phoniatris and Audiology Unit, Department of Neuroscience DNS, University of Padova, 31100 Treviso, Italy
- Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Innovation in Clinical Research and Methodology (PhD Program), Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25100 Brescia, Italy
| | - Salvatore Fermo
- Phoniatris and Audiology Unit, Department of Neuroscience DNS, University of Padova, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Ingrid Inches
- Neuroradiology Unit, Treviso Hospital, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Andrea Lovato
- Otorhinolaryngology Unit, Department of Surgical Specialties, Vicenza Civil Hospital, 36100 Vicenza, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Genovese
- Audiology Unit, Department of Diagnostic, Clinical and Public Health Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Gino Marioni
- Phoniatris and Audiology Unit, Department of Neuroscience DNS, University of Padova, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Cosimo de Filippis
- Phoniatris and Audiology Unit, Department of Neuroscience DNS, University of Padova, 31100 Treviso, Italy
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Umana GE, Alberio N, Graziano F, Fricia M, Tomasi SO, Corbino L, Nicoletti GF, Cicero S, Scalia G. Vertebrobasilar Dolichoectasia, Hypoplastic Third Ventricle, and Related Biventricular Hydrocephalus: Case Report and Review of the Literature. J Neurol Surg A Cent Eur Neurosurg 2023; 84:206-211. [PMID: 34077981 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1725049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBDE) is defined as a symptomatic dilatation and tortuosity of the vertebrobasilar arteries. The risk of hydrocephalus development is due to direct compression of the third ventricle outflow or brainstem compression and related aqueduct stenosis. We present an uncommon case of a patient with symptomatic VBDE with the uniqueness of a hypoplastic third ventricle associated with biventricular hydrocephalus. A literature review concerning diagnosis and management of patients affected by biventricular hydrocephalus caused by VBDE was also performed. CASE ILLUSTRATION We report a case of a 54-year-old man who presented with headache, ideomotor apraxia, and gait disorder. A head computed tomography (CT) scan showed a biventricular hydrocephalus and a subsequent CT angiography documented the presence of a VBDE compressing the anterior part of the third ventricle that also appeared hypoplastic. The patient also presented a clinical history of arterial hypertension for which he was given a proper pharmacologic treatment with symptom relief. A surgical treatment of ventriculoperitoneal shunt along with endoscopic septostomy was proposed, but the patient refused, probably due to the slightly positive response to medical treatment. CONCLUSIONS The natural clinical history of patients affected by VBDE is unfavorable with 7.8 years of median survival. The therapeutic strategy is usually conservative and the role of antiplatelets or oral anticoagulants is still debated. In selected patients, ventriculoperitoneal shunt to resolve intracranial hypertension caused by biventricular hydrocephalus is the most effective treatment. In our opinion, chronic third ventricle compression could lead to anatomic-pathologic alterations like the third ventricle hypoplasia documented in our report.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicola Alberio
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cannizzaro Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca Graziano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Azienda Ospedaliera di Rilievo Nazionale e di Alta Specializzazione Garibaldi, Catania, Sicilia, Italy
| | - Marco Fricia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cannizzaro Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Leonardo Corbino
- Department of Neurosurgery, Azienda Ospedaliera Cannizzaro, Catania, Sicilia, Italy
| | | | | | - Gianluca Scalia
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Specialist Hospital Garibaldi, Catania, Sicilia, Italy
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Symptomatic Vascular Compression of Brainstem May Be Managed Conservatively. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12081179. [PMID: 36013358 PMCID: PMC9410243 DOI: 10.3390/life12081179] [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: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Medulla compression from vertebral artery abnormality is a very rare occurrence with few cases present in the literature. It has been documented to present with a very wide spectrum of clinical symptomatology ranging from asymptomatic to full hemiplegia. There is currently no treatment algorithm in place to guide clinicians encountering such patients but treatments have historically involved major posterior compartment surgical interventions. This case outlined a patient evaluated for dizziness without any other neurological symptoms or signs, found to have abnormal dilatation, elongation, and tortuosity of the vertebral artery with resultant compression of the medulla oblongata. The patient was managed conservatively after discussion of surgical options. This report outlined an important consideration for management of medullar compression by vertebral artery based on symptom severity with the possibility of postponing surgical or endovascular interventions and opting for conservative management with an anti-platelet regimen, particularly in the short term.
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Tsutsumi S, Nonaka S, Ono H, Ishii H. Vertebral artery compression of the medulla oblongata: A benign radiological finding? Surg Neurol Int 2022; 13:36. [PMID: 35242402 PMCID: PMC8888186 DOI: 10.25259/sni_1161_2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:
To the best of our knowledge, no study has documented the natural history of rostral medullary compression of the vertebral artery (RMCVA) as radiological finding. The aim of this study was to explore it.
Methods:
A total of 57 patients with RMCVA and not presenting symptoms of medullary compression syndrome were enrolled. These participants underwent cerebral magnetic resonance imaging with contrast, and 19 of them who were followed for 5.7 ± 1.9 years (range: 3.0–10.3 years) were analyzed in detail. For comparison, clinical courses of two other patients with vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBDE) were presented.
Results:
RMCVA was well delineated in all 57 patients. In the 19 patients analyzed, RMCVA was found in 17 sides on the right and 15 on the left. Moreover, the ventrolateral medulla was the most frequent compression site, and it was found in 69% of cases, with 84.2% presenting as mild compression and 15.8% as considerable compression. During the follow-up period, no patients showed neurological deterioration or radiological progression. In contrast, the two VBDE patients demonstrated both neurological and radiological progressions during the follow-up period.
Conclusion:
Unlike VBDE, RMCVA seems to be a benign condition without progression, even when with a considerable compression. Degree of the compression in RMCVA may not be relevant to the patient’s neurological status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Tsutsumi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Urayasu, Japan
| | - Senshu Nonaka
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Urayasu, Japan
| | - Hideo Ono
- Division of Radiological Technology, Medical Satellite Yaesu Clinic, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisato Ishii
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Urayasu, Japan
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Goroshchenko SA. [Diagnosis and treatment of non-saccular vertebrobasilar aneurysms]. ZHURNAL VOPROSY NEIROKHIRURGII IMENI N. N. BURDENKO 2022; 86:109-114. [PMID: 35758086 DOI: 10.17116/neiro202286031109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To systematize the data on diagnosis and treatment of non-saccular vertebrobasilar aneurysms. MATERIAL AND METHODS We have analyzed modern and fundamental studies in the PubMed database for the period 1969-2020. The following keywords were used: non-saccular aneurysm, dolichoectasia, vertebrobasilar pool. Fifty-nine studies including 1 meta-analysis, 9 case reports, 24 reviews and 25 original articles were selected. RESULTS Analysis of literature data indicates various unresolved problems associated with difficult diagnosis and choice of treatment that results high rates of disability and mortality. CONCLUSION Data on anatomical features of non-saccular aneurysms, such as presence or absence of perforating arteries within the affected arterial segment, analysis of electrophysiological changes following brainstem compression by aneurysm can serve as factors that will improve treatment outcomes in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Goroshchenko
- Polenov Russian Research Neurosurgical Institute - Branch of the Almazov National Medical Research Center, St. Petersburg, Russia
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Burulday V, Doğan A, Akgül MH, Alpua M, Çankaya I. Is there a relationship between basilar artery tortuosity and vertigo? Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2019; 178:97-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2019.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Förster A, Wenz R, Maros ME, Böhme J, Al-Zghloul M, Alonso A, Groden C, Wenz H. Anatomical distribution of cerebral microbleeds and intracerebral hemorrhage in vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0196149. [PMID: 29672624 PMCID: PMC5908155 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0196149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is a dilatative arteriopathy associated with intracerebral hemorrhage. In the present study, we sought to evaluate the frequency and anatomical distribution of cerebral microbleeds (cMBs) and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in VBD. METHODS From a MRI database 94 VBD patients were identified and analyzed with special emphasis on cMBs and ICH on T2*-weighted gradient echo images (GRE) in relation to the established diagnostic MRI criteria of VBD (diameter, height, and lateral position). cMBs/ICH location was categorized into anterior/posterior circulation. Clinical information like demographic details, clinical symptoms, and comorbidities were abstracted from the case records. An extensive modelling approach using generalized linear mixed-effects models was used. RESULTS Overall, 79 (84.0%) patients (mean age 72.1±10.0 years, 74.7% male) with a standard stroke MRI protocol including T2*-weighted images were included in the analysis. cMBs were observed in 38/79 (48.1%) patients, ranging from 1 to 84 cMBs per patient. In the posterior circulation cMBs were observed more frequently (34/38 (89.5%)) in comparison to the anterior circulation (24/38 (63.2%)). cMBs were observed in the thalamus in 20/38 (52.6%), hippocampus in 1/38 (2.6%), occipital lobe in 18/38 (47.4%), pons in 6/38 (15.8%), medulla oblongata in 2/38 (5.2%), and cerebellum in 14/38 (36.8%) patients. ICH was observed in only 6/79 (7.6%) patients. There were significantly more cMBs in the posterior- (NCMBs-PC = 1.717, 95%CI: 1.336-2.208, p = 0.0315) than in the anterior circulation. Logistic regression model showed a significant positive effect of clinical symptoms such as ischemic, TIA and hemorrhagic stroke on the presence of cMBs (OR = 3.34, 95%CI [2.0-5.57], p = 0.0184; ndf = 78, AIC = 107.51). General linear model showed that clinical symptoms have a highly significant effect on the number of cMBs (N = 2.78, 95%CI [2.51-3.07], p<2*10-16; ndf = 78, AIC = 1218). CONCLUSION cMBs and ICH may be observed in the anterior and posterior circulation in VBD but they occur more frequently in the posterior circulation. Most common anatomical locations of cMBs in VBD were the thalamus, occipital lobe and cerebellum. This posterior dominance of cMBs and ICH in VBD might reflect a specific underlying vascular pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Förster
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ralf Wenz
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Máté Elöd Maros
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Johannes Böhme
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Mansour Al-Zghloul
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Angelika Alonso
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christoph Groden
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Holger Wenz
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Ebrahimzadeh K, Bakhtevari MH, Shafizad M, Rezaei O. Hydrocephalus as a rare compilation of vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia: A case report and review of the literature. Surg Neurol Int 2017; 8:256. [PMID: 29184707 PMCID: PMC5680668 DOI: 10.4103/sni.sni_162_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is a rare disease characterized by significant expansion, elongation, and tortuosity of the vertebrobasilar arteries. Hydrocephalus is a rare compilation of VBD. Case Description: In this study, we report a 68-year-old male presenting with headache, progressive decreased visual acuity, memory loss, imbalance while walking, and episodes of urinary incontinency. The patient was diagnosed with dolichoectasia of basilar artery causing compression of the third ventricular outflow and thus, presenting with hydrocephalus documented with brain computed tomography scan and brain magnetic resonance imaging. The patient underwent surgical operation and ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement. Conclusion: In the case of hydrocephalus or normal pressure hydrocephalous, VBD should be considered as a differential diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keveh Ebrahimzadeh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Loghman e Hakim hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad H Bakhtevari
- Department of Neurosurgery, Loghman e Hakim hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Misagh Shafizad
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Omidvar Rezaei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Loghman e Hakim hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Samim M, Goldstein A, Schindler J, Johnson MH. Multimodality Imaging of Vertebrobasilar Dolichoectasia: Clinical Presentations and Imaging Spectrum. Radiographics 2016; 36:1129-46. [PMID: 27315445 DOI: 10.1148/rg.2016150032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is characterized by ectasia, elongation, and tortuosity of the vertebrobasilar arteries, with a high degree of variability in clinical presentation. The disease origin is believed to involve degeneration of the internal elastic lamina, thinning of the media secondary to reticular fiber deficiency, and smooth muscle atrophy. The prevalence of VBD is variable, ranging from 0.05% to 18%. Most patients with VBD are asymptomatic and their VBD is detected incidentally; however, it is important to recognize that the presence of symptoms, which can lead to clinically significant morbidity and sometimes mortality, may influence clinical management. The most important clinical presentations of VBD are vascular events, such as ischemic stroke and catastrophic intracranial hemorrhage, or progressive compressive symptoms related to compression of adjacent structures, including the cranial nerves, brainstem, or third ventricle, causing hydrocephalus. The imaging diagnostic criteria for computed tomography and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging include three quantitative measures of basilar artery morphology: laterality score, height of bifurcation, and basilar artery diameter. The authors review the relevant anatomy and disease origin of VBD; pertinent imaging findings, including intraluminal thrombus and relation to the cranial nerves; and imaging pitfalls, such as the hyperintense vessel sign on MR images and artifacts related to slow flow in the dolichoectatic vessel. In addition, clinical manifestations, the role of radiology in diagnosis and management of this condition, and available management options are reviewed. (©)RSNA, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Samim
- From the Departments of Diagnostic Radiology (M.S., A.G., M.H.J.) and Neurology (J.S.), Yale University School of Medicine, 20 York St, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Alan Goldstein
- From the Departments of Diagnostic Radiology (M.S., A.G., M.H.J.) and Neurology (J.S.), Yale University School of Medicine, 20 York St, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Joseph Schindler
- From the Departments of Diagnostic Radiology (M.S., A.G., M.H.J.) and Neurology (J.S.), Yale University School of Medicine, 20 York St, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Michele H Johnson
- From the Departments of Diagnostic Radiology (M.S., A.G., M.H.J.) and Neurology (J.S.), Yale University School of Medicine, 20 York St, New Haven, CT 06510
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Yuan YJ, Xu K, Luo Q, Yu JL. Research progress on vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia. Int J Med Sci 2014; 11:1039-48. [PMID: 25136259 PMCID: PMC4135226 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.8566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is a rare disease characterized by significant expansion, elongation, and tortuosity of the vertebrobasilar arteries. Current data regarding VBD are very limited. Here we systematically review VBD incidence, etiology, characteristics, clinical manifestations, treatment strategies, and prognosis. The exact incidence rate of VBD remains unclear, but is estimated to be 1.3% of the population. The occurrence of VBD is thought to be due to the cooperation of multiple factors, including congenital factors, infections and immune status, and degenerative diseases. The VBD clinical manifestations are complex with ischemic stroke as the most common, followed by progressive compression of cranial nerves and the brain stem, cerebral hemorrhage, and hydrocephalus. Treatment of VBD remains difficult. Currently, there are no precise and effective treatments, and available treatments mainly target the complications of VBD. With the development of stent technology, however, it may become an effective treatment for VBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Jie Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jilin University First Hospital, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Kan Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jilin University First Hospital, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Qi Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jilin University First Hospital, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Jin-Lu Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jilin University First Hospital, Changchun 130021, China
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A comparison of CT/CT angiography and MRI/MR angiography for imaging of vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia. Clin Neuroradiol 2013; 24:347-53. [PMID: 24132554 DOI: 10.1007/s00062-013-0261-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/24/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is a rare dilatative arteriopathy predominantly affecting the basilar artery (BA) and vertebral arteries. Until today, the value of computed tomography (CT)/CT angiography (CTA) compared with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/time-of-flight MR angiography (TOF-MRA) has not been studied systematically. METHODS We (1) compare CTA and TOF-MRA according to the established criteria (diameter at the mid-pons level, height, and lateral position), (2) explore the value of further CTA- and TOF-MRA-derived measures (maximum transverse diameter and length), as well as (3) explore the value of further non-contrast-enhanced MRI sequences such as T1, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery, and T2* for a detailed characterization of VBD in a series of 18 patients. RESULTS Comparison of CTA and TOF-MRA revealed very good consistency of the measured diameter (Pearson's r = 0.994, p = 0.01) and the noted height of the BA (Kendall's tau = 1.0, p = 0.001). The same held true for the maximum transverse diameter (Pearson's r = 0.988, p = 0.01) and length of the BA (Pearson's r = 0.986, p = 0.01). In contrast to this, there was a lower agreement concerning the lateral position (Kendall's tau = 0.866, p = 0.01). In comparison with the diameter at the mid-pons level, the maximum transverse diameter was significantly larger (p = 0.002). Luminal thrombus was detected equally well by CTA and TOF-MRA. CT was useful to detect small circumscribed calcifications, whereas MRI was advantageous to demonstrate perifocal brainstem edema. CONCLUSIONS We could demonstrate a substantial comparability of CT/CTA and MRI/TOF-MRA in the diagnosis of VBD. The maximum transverse diameter and length may be useful when an endovascular treatment is considered. Taking into account the different informative value of both techniques, it may be worth to perform both imaging procedures.
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Mignarri A, Rossi S, Ballerini M, Gallus GN, Del Puppo M, Galluzzi P, Federico A, Dotti MT. Clinical relevance and neurophysiological correlates of spasticity in cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis. J Neurol 2010; 258:783-90. [PMID: 21104094 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-010-5829-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2010] [Revised: 10/30/2010] [Accepted: 11/03/2010] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) is a rare neurometabolic disease due to defective activity of sterol 27-hydroxylase, with plasma and tissue cholestanol storage. Clinical phenotype is characterized by both systemic manifestations and neurological signs. Therapy with chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) suppresses abnormal bile acid synthesis. The purpose of the study was to assess the frequency and clinical relevance of spasticity in the CTX phenotype and to study the usefulness of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in detecting corticospinal tract damage and monitoring the effects of replacement therapy. Twenty-four CTX patients underwent clinical evaluation including general disability scores, pyramidal and cerebellar function scales, assessment of serum cholestanol and TMS. Nine patients who started CDCA therapy at baseline received clinical and neurophysiological follow up. All patients showed signs of pyramidal damage which were relevant for clinical disability in 18 out of 24 cases (75%), resulting in spastic paraparesis. TMS revealed corticospinal alterations even in subjects with mild clinical signs of corticospinal tract involvement. After CDCA treatment, serum cholestanol decreased to normal concentrations in all patients. Clinical picture was unchanged in seven out of nine cases; in two others pyramidal signs disappeared. A reduction in abnormal neurophysiological parameters was found. Spastic paraparesis is the most frequent and relevant neurological feature in CTX patients. Replacement treatment with CDCA can prevent the progression of pyramidal damage, especially if started early in the course of the disease. TMS represents a sensitive indicator of corticospinal tract dysfunction and subclinical improvements in pyramidal function after CDCA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mignarri
- Neurometabolic Unit, Department of Neurological, Neurosurgical and Behavioural Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Pereira-Filho ADA, Faria MDB, Bleil C, Kraemer JL. Brainstem compression syndrome caused by vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia: microvascular repositioning technique. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2008; 66:408-11. [DOI: 10.1590/s0004-282x2008000300026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cristina Bleil
- Fundação Faculdade Federal de Ciências Médicas de Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Jorge Luiz Kraemer
- Complexo Hospitalar Santa Casa de Porto Alegre; Fundação Faculdade Federal de Ciências Médicas de Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Campos CR, Doria-Netto HL, Souza-Filho AMD, Silva Júnior HMD. Oligosymptomatic and giant basilar artery dolichoectasia discovered after a stroke: case report. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2007; 65:345-7. [PMID: 17607442 DOI: 10.1590/s0004-282x2007000200031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2006] [Accepted: 01/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The most frequently diagnosed complication of vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is the compression of structures adjacent to the vertebral and basilar arteries. A giant VBD with only slight compressive symptoms is unusual. In this setting, the diagnosis of VBD may be casually revealed after the occurrence of a posterior circulation stroke, another potential complication. We report a 48-year-old woman who presented a two-month history of continuous buzz and a slight right-sided hearing loss that was followed by a cerebellar ischemic stroke. Brain CT and MRI revealed a marked compression of the brainstem due to an ectatic, tortuous and partially thrombosed basilar artery (BA). The largest cross-sectional diameter of BA was 18 mm. The patient had a good functional recovery within the two-month follow-up after stroke with modified Rankin scale score (mRSS)=2. At the one-year follow-up, patient still kept the complaints of continuous buzz, slight right-sided hearing loss and the mRSS was the same. We call attention for an unusual giant VBD that caused an impressive brainstem compression with displacement of important structures in an oligosymptomatic patient. Diagnosis was made only after the occurrence of a stroke. Despite of the good functional recovery after stroke, the presence of significant atherosclerotic changes and the large BA diameter may indicate a poor outcome. However, after one year, she remains oligosymptomatic.
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Abstract
Background and Purpose—
Intracranial bleeding in patients with vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is considered uncommon, but there are no precise data to support this opinion. The purpose of this study was to examine the incidence and characteristics of intracranial hemorrhage in patients with VBD and to evaluate factors that may promote bleeding.
Methods—
We conducted a prospective study of 156 consecutive VDB patients followed-up for an average 9.35 years. The association of demographic, clinical, and imaging features with occurrence of intracranial bleeding was evaluated by multivariate analysis. Survival analysis was used to evaluate rates of incidence.
Results—
32 hemorrhagic strokes were observed in 28 patients either as a diagnostic event (n=10) or during follow-up (n=22). Of the 32 hemorrhagic events, 6 were subarachnoid hemorrhage and 26 intraparenchymal hemorrhage. Multivariate analysis found an association between intracranial bleeding and maximum diameter of the basilar artery (OR, 4.29;
P
=0.009), degree of lateral displacement of the basilar artery (OR, 4.53;
P
=0.004), hypertension (OR, 4.74;
P
=0.024), use of antiplatelet or anticoagulant agents (OR, 3.07;
P
=0.033), and female sex (OR 6.33;
P
=0.001). The cumulative proportion of survivors free of hemorrhagic stroke was 88.6 at 5 years and 84.4 at 10 years.
Conclusions—
Our study showed that intracranial bleeding in patients with VBD is not as uncommon as usually believed. Its occurrence is associated with the degree of ectasia and elongation of the basilar artery and may be favored by hypertension and use of antiplatelet or anticoagulant agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano G Passero
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Siena. Viale Bracci, Siena, Italy.
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Kunishige M, Mitsui T, Yoshino H, Asano A, Tsuruo M, Endo I, Yagi F, Matsumoto T. Isolated cranial neuropathy associated with anti-glycolipid antibodies. J Neurol Sci 2004; 225:51-5. [PMID: 15465085 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2004.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2003] [Revised: 06/21/2004] [Accepted: 06/22/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
We describe seven patients with isolated cranial neuropathy in whom serum anti-glycolipid antibodies were detected. Trigeminal sensory neuropathy was found in four patients, who had exhibited symptoms for 2 months to 4 years. The other three patients showed facial nerve palsy with or without ophthalmoparesis. Temporal profile analysis of anti-glycolipid antibodies revealed that titers of anti-glycolipid IgM antibodies against GM2 and LM1 gradually decreased in patients having chronic trigeminal sensory neuropathy. In patients with acute trigeminal sensory neuropathy, elevation of anti-LM1 antibody titers continued over 12 months although anti-GalNAc-GD1a antibody disappeared. On the other hand, titers of anti-glycolipid antibodies rapidly decreased in patients with acute facial nerve palsy with or without ophthalmoparesis. We conclude that anti-glycolipid antibodies may play an important role in the development of isolated cranial neuropathy in some patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Kunishige
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Sciences, University of Tokushima Graduate School of Medicine, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
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Abstract
Disorders of the vestibular nerve and end organs are the most common causes of vertigo. The advances in recognizing different forms of canalolithiasis and cupulolithiasis, which sometimes present with continuous positional nystagmus, have revealed a peripheral vestibular aetiology in which central nervous system lesions were previously suspected. Treatments using repositioning manoeuvres are also successful in cases in which nystagmus does not appear, and when administered by less specialized physicians. In acute vestibulopathy, suspicions of the activation of herpes virus infections as a causative agent are increasing, but no reports on the treatment of such infections are yet available. New treatments are in development for use in Ménière's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Måns Magnusson
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Lund University Hospital, S221 85 Lund, Sweden.
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