A negative D-dimer assay does not rule out cerebral venous thrombosis: a series of seventy-three patients

Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas With or Without Cerebral Venous Thrombosis: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of 511 Patients

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Recent studies suggest a bidirectional relationship of dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). We aimed to compare the characteristics of patients with DAVF with or without CVT and to analyze the risk factors for the coexistence of CVT in a DAVF population.

METHODS

A total of 511 adult patients with DAVF were enrolled consecutively in our hospital from February 2019 through November 2022. Demographic data, clinical manifestations, and imaging characteristics were reviewed in detail. The patients with DAVF were divided into two groups: DAVF with CVT (DAVF-CVT) group and without CVT (DAVF alone) group. Univariate logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyze the risk factors for the coexistence of CVT and DAVF.

RESULTS

CVT was found in 19.8% of patients with DAVF. In univariate analysis, compared with the DAVF-alone group, the DAVF-CVT group was more likely to have tinnitus ( P = .001), blurred vision ( P < .001), visual field loss ( P = .001), focal neurological deficits ( P = .002), seizures ( P = .008), and cognitive impairment ( P = .046) and less likely to have spinal cord/brain stem dysfunction ( P = .004). In addition, there were significant differences in age ( P = .009), sex ( P = .019), the occurrence of venous cerebral infarction ( P = .001), and DAVF location ( P < .001) between the two groups. Furthermore, multivariate analysis showed that blurred vision, venous cerebral infarction, large sinus DAVF, and multiple DAVF were risk factors for the coexistence of CVT in patients with DAVF, with the odds ratio of 2.416 (95% CI 1.267-4.606, P = .007), 6.018 (95% CI 1.289-28.100, P = .022), 5.801 (95% CI 2.494-13.496, P < .001), and 5.640 (95% CI 2.122-14.989, P = .001), respectively.

CONCLUSION

CVT occurred in approximately one fifth of patients with DAVF. Blurred vision, venous cerebral infarction, large sinus DAVF, and multiple DAVF may be the risk factors for predicting the coexistence of CVT in patients with DAVF.

Case report: Coexistence of Labbe vein thrombosis and autoimmune encephalitis with two different antibodies

Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis is an autoimmune encephalitis well- known to pediatric neurologists. The characteristic combination of symptoms and detection of NMDA receptor antibody can confirm the diagnosis. Most children respond well to immunosuppressive therapy. Anti-GABAB receptor encephalitis usually occurs in adult patients. Most patients present clinically with symptoms of limbic encephalitis. Cases in pediatric patients are rare. Cerebral venous thrombosis also has a very low incidence in children without underlying diseases. Patients usually present with headaches, convulsions, and focal deficits. Anticoagulants are the first choice treatment. We report a boy initially diagnosed with Labbe vein thrombosis and later tested positive for both NMDA and GABAB receptors. Anticoagulants did not relieve the boy's symptoms, and immunosuppressive therapy achieved good results. The antibody titers were significantly reduced or even turned negative. Although the Labbe vein was not recanalized at four months follow-up, the brain lesion was significantly absorbed. We learn from this case that a child can be inflicted with cerebral venous thrombosis and autoimmune encephalitis simultaneously. Child patients respond well to treatment.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges of Concurrent Intracranial Hemorrhage and Cerebral Venous Thrombosis in a Patient With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Case Report and Literature Review

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a cerebrovascular condition due to the thrombosis of cerebral venous sinuses, leading to intracranial hemorrhage, increased intracranial pressure, focal deficit, seizure, toxic edema, encephalopathy, and death. The diagnosis and therapeutic approach of CVST remain challenging because of its highly nonspecific clinical presentation including headaches, seizures, focal neurologic deficits, and altered mental status, etc. Anticoagulation is the mainstay of CVST treatment and should be started as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed. Here, we present the case of a 34-year-old male construction worker who presented to the emergency department with a complaint of right chest wall pain and swelling. He was admitted to the hospital following a diagnosis of anterior chest wall abscess and mediastinitis. During hospitalization, his complete blood count revealed pancytopenia with blast cells, and bone marrow biopsy revealed 78.5% lymphoid blasts by aspirate differential count and hypercellular marrow (100%) with decreased hematopoiesis. He developed concurrent CVST and intracranial hemorrhage while receiving CALGB10403 (vincristine, daunorubicin, pegaspargase, prednisone) with intrathecal cytarabine induction chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The patient failed two standard chemotherapy for ALL and achieved remission while on third-line chemotherapy with an anti-CD19 monoclonal antibody, blinatumomab. Although this patient had an MRI scan of the brain with multiple follow-up non-contrast CT scans, it was CT angiography that revealed CVST. This showed the diagnostic challenge in CVST, with CT and MRI venography having excellent sensitivity in diagnosing CVST. Risk factors for CVST in our patient were ALL and its intensive induction chemotherapy with pegaspargase.

D-Dimer Level Associated with Amount of Sinus involvement Using Digital Subtraction Angiography on Cerebral Venous Thrombosis Patients

Background

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a form of the cerebrovascular disease characterized by varying degrees of obstruction of veins and cerebral sinuses caused by thrombus. Diagnosis is incredibly challenging due to the wide variety of symptoms and the distinct radiological aspects of affected vessels. In patients with venous thrombosis, the presence of D-Dimer is used as an indicator of the presence of endogenous fibrinolysis. D-Dimer is a by-product of fibrin polymer fragmentation.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between the level of D-Dimer and the number of sinuses in CVST by Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA).

Methods

Retrospective data from September 2021 to September 2022 were used in this analytical observational with a cross-sectional study design. Chi-Square is used for data processing relationship analysis.

Results

Out of the 54 subjects with elevated levels of D-Dimer, 38 (70.4%) are females, whereas 16 (29.6%) are males. High levels of D-Dimer have been related to a greater risk of sinus thrombosis (p < 0.001). D-Dimer levels were similarly shown to rise in conjunction with the number of sinuses most severely damaged by thrombosis. The most common site for thrombosis to develop in this study were the left sigmoid and left transverse sinuses. Most risk factors were hormonal.

Conclusion

There is a statistically significant relationship between an increase in the D-Dimer level and the greater number of sinuses involved as determined by DSA in individuals diagnosed with CVST.

Frequency of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis in Dubai, UAE-A Multicenter, Retrospective Study

Background and Purpose

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), also known as cerebral dural venous thrombosis, is not a very common cause of stroke. It has a diverse clinical presentation, with multiple predisposing factors and imaging findings. The incidence of CVT varies in different studies. We hypothesized that the incidence of CVT in Dubai is more than that reported in the West owing to dehydration caused by the high atmospheric temperature.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients aged more than 13 years with appropriate International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, codes for the diagnosis of CVT from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2018 from three major hospitals with an acute stroke service in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Results

We identified 138 patients who presented with CVT. The average frequency of CVT was 6.6 per 100,000 population. Fifty percent of the patients presented between May and September, which are considered the hottest months in the UAE. Headache was the most common presentation, followed by seizures. The most important risk factors were the use of oral contraceptive pills, anemia, and polycythemia. Our study showed a higher incidence of anemia, polycythemia, thrombophilia, and abnormal CT brain findings.

Conclusion

In our study, CVT was more common during the months of summer. Anemia and polycythemia were strongly associated with CVT. Public awareness about CVT, its higher incidence during summer months and strategies to avoid dehydration might be considered to reduce the incidence of CVT in summer months. However, larger studies are needed to confirm definite associations.

What about cerebral venous sinus thrombosis? A series of three autopsy cases

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is an uncommon cerebrovascular disorder that gained massive media attention in 2021, when an association between COVID-19 and its vaccines was found in several reported cases, raising the suspicion of a causative relation that is still debated.

Three cases of CVST unrelated to COVID-19 are reported in this article to highlight the difficulty in the early recognition and management of this condition, as it occurs in a variety of diseases with different clinical and pathological manifestations.

When the diagnosis cannot be achieved in the clinical setting, the role of the pathologist becomes essential in the determination of the cause of death and in the identification of the etiology of CVST.

During the autopsy, coordination between the physician and the forensic pathologist is crucial to correlate the clinical presentation with the pathological picture.

Delayed Onset Bilateral Papilledema in a Young Boy's Eyes after Trauma

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare venous thromboembolic disease that affects young adults in their thirties, with a female predilection. Head trauma accounts for only 1-3% of cases among possible etiologies. Here, we present a particular case of trauma-related CVST with delayed-onset symptoms and signs in a young boy. A 12-year-old boy presented to the emergency department with non-specific visual symptoms 11 days after head trauma. Apart from mild-grade disc swelling in the right eye and dyschromatopsia in both eyes, no significant findings were revealed during physical examinations and a non-contrast cranial computed tomography (CT) scan. Unfortunately, the patient suffered multiple seizure attacks the following day. Trauma-related CVST, complicated by delayed-onset increased intracranial pressure, and bilateral papilledema were finally diagnosed. Physicians need increased awareness of a possible CVST diagnosis if a patient with a history of head trauma shows persistent or worsening neurological symptoms despite negative results on serial non-contrast cranial CT scans.

Pathogenesis and Management in Cerebrovenous Outflow Disorders

In keeping with its status as one of the major causes of disability and mortality worldwide, brain damage induced by cerebral arterial disease has been the subject of several decades of scientific investigation, which has resulted in a vastly improved understanding of its pathogenesis. Brain injury mediated by venous etiologies, however, such as cerebral, jugular, and vertebral venous outflow disturbance, have been largely ignored by clinicians. Unfortunately, this inattention is not proportional to the severity of cerebral venous diseases, as the impact they exact on the quality of life of affected patients may be no less than that of arterial diseases. This is evident in disease sequelae such as cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT)-mediated visual impairment, epilepsy, and intracranial hypertension; and the long-term unbearable head noise, tinnitus, headache, dizziness, sleeping disorder, and even severe intracranial hypertension induced by non-thrombotic cerebral venous sinus (CVS) stenosis and/or internal jugular venous (IJV) stenosis. In addition, the vertebral venous system (VVS), a large volume, valveless vascular network that stretches from the brain to the pelvis, provides a conduit for diffuse transmission of tumors, infections, or emboli, with potentially devastating clinical consequences. Moreover, the lack of specific features and focal neurologic signs seen with arterial etiologies render cerebral venous disease prone to both to misdiagnoses and missed diagnoses. It is therefore imperative that awareness be raised, and that as comprehensive an understanding as possible of these issues be cultivated. In this review, we attempt to facilitate these goals by systematically summarizing recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of these entities, including CVT, CVS stenosis, and IJV stenosis, with the aim of providing a valid, practical reference for clinicians.

D-Dimer Level Associates with the Incidence of Focal Neurological Deficits in Cerebral Venous Thrombosis Patients

Purpose

D-dimer is one of the main coagulation factors that plays a role in some diseases. Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare cerebrovascular disease with various clinical presentations, and the D-dimer might contribute to its clinical progress. Our study's objective was to explore the association between D-dimer level and focal neurological deficits in selected CVT patients.

Patients and Methods

The patients' data were retrospectively enrolled if they showed venous thrombus features in the digital subtraction angiography examination. Data collected were then evaluated using appropriate statistical tests.

Results

In a total of 30 patients, 24 patients had focal neurological deficits with abnormal D-dimer (mean 1.13±1.359 mg/L). We continued analysis to determine the association between the visual analog scale (VAS), a tool to measure the patient's pain, and coagulation factors. There was no significant association between the VAS score and all the coagulation factors. Interestingly, a positive association was found between focal neurological deficits and abnormal D-dimer levels (p=0.009).

Conclusion

The abnormality of D-dimer levels in CVT's patients associates with the incidence of focal neurological deficits.

Prediction of cerebral venous thrombosis with a new clinical score and D-dimer levels

OBJECTIVE

To investigate prediction of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) by clinical variables and D-dimer levels.

METHODS

This prospective multicenter study included consecutive patients with clinically possible CVT. On admission, patients underwent clinical examination, blood sampling for D-dimers measuring (ELISA test), and magnetic resonance/CT venography. Predictive value of clinical variables and D-dimers for CVT was calculated. A clinical score to stratify patients into groups with low, moderate, or high CVT risk was established with multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

CVT was confirmed in 26.2% (94 of 359) of patients by neuroimaging. The optimal estimate of clinical probability was based on 6 variables: seizure(s) at presentation (4 points), known thrombophilia (4 points), oral contraception (2 points), duration of symptoms >6 days (2 points), worst headache ever (1 point), and focal neurologic deficit at presentation (1 point) (area under the curve [AUC] 0.889). We defined 0 to 2 points as low CVT probability (negative predictive value [NPV] 94.1%). Of the 186 (51.8%) patients who had a low probability score, 11 (5.9%) had CVT. The frequency of CVT was 28.3% (34 of 120) in patients with a moderate (3-5 points) and 92.5% (49 of 53) in patients with a high (6-12 points) probability score. All low CVT probability patients with CVT had D-dimers >500 μg/L. Predictive value of D-dimers for CVT for >675 μg/L (best cutoff) vs >500 μg/L was as follows: sensitivity 77.7%, specificity, 77%, NPV 90.7%, and accuracy 77.2% vs sensitivity 89.4%, specificity 66.4%, NPV 94.6%, and accuracy 72.4%, respectively. Adding the clinical score to D-dimers >500 μg/L resulted in the best CVT prediction score explored (at the cutoff ≥6 points: sensitivity 83%/specificity 86.8%/NPV 93.5%/accuracy 84.4%/AUC 0.937).

CONCLUSION

The proposed new clinical score in combination with D-dimers may be helpful for predicting CVT as a pretest score; none of the patients with CVT showed low clinical probability for CVT and D-dimers <500 μg/L.

CLINICALTRIALSGOV IDENTIFIER

NCT00924859.

Cerebral venous thrombosis in adults

Summary. Thromboses of cerebral veins and/or sinuses (CVT) encompass a clinically rather heterogenous, relatively rare entity, which is nonetheless an important cause of stroke in the young. While until the mid of the last century the prognosis of CVT was thought to be poor or even fatal in the majority of cases, the advance and wider use of modern imaging technology since the early 1980s, together with the results of registries and population-based studies, revealed that CVT is more frequent and less life-threatening than previously assumed. However, because headache is frequently the only symptom, many oligosymptomatic cases might be overlooked. Both, CT- and MR-venography are suitable methods to confirm or rule out CVT, while the sensitivity of laboratory tests (D-dimer) alone is too low to rely on. Despite low evidence anticoagulation remains the treatment of choice during the acute phase and for secondary prevention.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in a young patient with ulcerative colitis: A case report

RATIONALE

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) represents one of the most alarming forms of hemostatic abnormalities that may occur in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs).

PATIENT CONCERNS

Here we report a case of a 25-year-old male with ulcerative colitis, who developed such thromboembolic complication during flare of the disease. CVST in our patient was clinically manifested by headache and nausea.

DIAGNOSIS

Angio-magnetic resonance imaging scan of the head revealed segments of contrast filling defects/absence indicating right dural venous sinus thrombosis of the transverse sinus.

INTERVENTION

Immediate treatment with low-molecular-weight heparin has been introduced and led to full remission of symptoms and total recanalization of the thrombotic cerebral regions.

OUTCOMES

Currently (over 2 years after diagnosis) the patient is in remission of the disease, and no further thromboembolic complications have been observed.

LESSONS

Our case study highlights the clinical difficulties and challenges associated with diagnosis and treatment of CVST, as well as presents the current state of knowledge about this complication among patients with IBDs. Physicians taking care of IBD patients should be aware of this alarming hemostatic abnormality.

Diagnostic accuracy of noncontrast CT imaging markers in cerebral venous thrombosis

Objective

To assess the added diagnostic value of semiquantitative imaging markers on noncontrast CT scans in cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT).

Methods

In a retrospective, multicenter, blinded, case-control study of patients with recent onset (<2 weeks) CVT, 3 readers assessed (1) the accuracy of the visual impression of CVT based on a combination of direct and indirect signs, (2) the accuracy of attenuation values of the venous sinuses in Hounsfield units (with adjustment for hematocrit levels), and (3) the accuracy of attenuation ratios of affected vs unaffected sinuses in comparison with reference standard MRI or CT angiography. Controls were age-matched patients with (sub)acute neurologic presentations.

Results

We enrolled 285 patients with CVT and 303 controls from 10 international centers. Sensitivity of visual impression of thrombosis ranged from 41% to 73% and specificity ranged from 97% to 100%. Attenuation measurement had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.78 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74–0.81). After adjustment for hematocrit, the AUC remained 0.78 (95% CI 0.74–0.81). The analysis of attenuation ratios of affected vs unaffected sinuses had AUC of 0.83 (95% CI 0.8–0.86). Adding this imaging marker significantly improved discrimination, but sensitivity when tolerating a false-positive rate of 20% was not higher than 76% (95% CI 0.70–0.81).

Conclusion

Semiquantitative analysis of attenuation values for diagnosis of CVT increased sensitivity but still failed to identify 1 out of 4 CVT.

Classification of evidence

This study provides Class II evidence that visual analysis of plain CT with or without attenuation measurements has high specificity but only moderate sensitivity for CVT.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis

The cerebral venous system is an unusual site of thrombosis, with a particularly high incidence in young adults. This incidence has increased in past decades because of the improvement of neuroradiological techniques. Risk factors for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis overlap with those of other venous thromboembolism sites; however, some are specific for this particular anatomical district. Prognosis is favorable in most cases if diagnosis is made rapidly and treatment is promptly initiated, even if acute complications or chronic invalidity still occur in a quarter of patients. The mainstay of treatment is anticoagulation, which is necessary in order to block clot propagation and obtain recanalization. Intracranial bleeding does not contraindicate anticoagulation. Endovascular procedures are reserved for patients with a particularly severe presentation or rapidly declining neurological symptoms despite appropriate anticoagulation, although data from clinical trials are lacking. Specifically, this review addresses the epidemiology, clinical presentation and course, risk factors, and treatment of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, with a special focus on the pediatric population.

Cerebral Venous Thrombosis: A Challenging Neurologic Diagnosis

Headache is a common emergency department chief complaint. Although most are benign, emergency physicians must rapidly identify and manage the uncommon, sometimes subtle, presentation of headache from a life-threatening cause. Cerebral venous thrombosis imparts significant morbidity and mortality, and can be a challenging diagnosis. It most commonly occurs in those under 50 years of age with thrombosis of the cerebral veins/sinuses. Diagnosis is frequently delayed. The disease can present with 1 or more clinical syndromes, including intracranial hypertension with headaches, focal neurologic deficits, seizures, and encephalopathy. Diagnosis requires imaging. Treatment includes stabilization, management of complications, and anticoagulation.

European Stroke Organization guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of cerebral venous thrombosis - Endorsed by the European Academy of Neurology

The current proposal for cerebral venous thrombosis guideline followed the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system, formulating relevant diagnostic and treatment questions, performing systematic reviews of all available evidence and writing recommendations and deciding on their strength on an explicit and transparent manner, based on the quality of available scientific evidence. The guideline addresses both diagnostic and therapeutic topics. We suggest using magnetic resonance or computed tomography angiography for confirming the diagnosis of cerebral venous thrombosis and not screening patients with cerebral venous thrombosis routinely for thrombophilia or cancer. We recommend parenteral anticoagulation in acute cerebral venous thrombosis and decompressive surgery to prevent death due to brain herniation. We suggest to use preferentially low-molecular weight heparin in the acute phase and not using direct oral anticoagulants. We suggest not using steroids and acetazolamide to reduce death or dependency. We suggest using antiepileptics in patients with an early seizure and supratentorial lesions to prevent further early seizures. We could not make recommendations due to very poor quality of evidence concerning duration of anticoagulation after the acute phase, thrombolysis and/or thrombectomy, therapeutic lumbar puncture, and prevention of remote seizures with antiepileptic drugs. We suggest that in women who suffered a previous cerebral venous thrombosis, contraceptives containing oestrogens should be avoided. We suggest that subsequent pregnancies are safe, but use of prophylactic low-molecular weight heparin should be considered throughout pregnancy and puerperium. Multicentre observational and experimental studies are needed to increase the level of evidence supporting recommendations on the diagnosis and management of cerebral venous thrombosis.

Non-contrast computed tomography in the diagnosis of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to investigate the sensitivity and specificity of non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) in the diagnosis of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST). Methods. Screening our neurological department database, we identified 53 patients who were admitted to neurological emergency department with clinical signs of CVST. Two independent observers assessed the NCCT scans for the presence of CVST. CT venography and/or MR venography were used as a reference standard. Interobserver agreement between the two readers was assessed using Kappa statistic. Attenuation inside the cerebral venous sinuses was measured and compared between the patient and the control group.

RESULTS

CVST was confirmed in 13 patients. Sensitivity and specificity of NCCT for overall presence of CVST were 100% and 83%, respectively, with Kappa value of 0.72 (a good agreement between observers). The attenuation values between CVST patients and control group were significantly different (73.4 ± 14.12 HU vs. 58.1 ± 7.58 HU; p = 0.000). The ROC analysis showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.916 (95% CI, 0.827 - 1.00) and an optimal cutoff value of 64 HU, leading to a sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 87%.

CONCLUSIONS

NCCT as a first-line investigation has a high value for diagnosis of CVST in the emergency setting. The additional measurement of the sinus attenuation may improve the diagnostic value of the examination.

D-dimer for the exclusion of cerebral venous thrombosis: a meta-analysis of low risk patients with isolated headache

BACKGROUND

Patients with isolated headache may have cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). D-dimers are proven sensitive in excluding deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in low risk patients. We aimed to determine whether D-dimer may play the same role in low risk CVT patients with isolated headache.

METHODS

We included consecutive patients suspected of CVT from our teaching hospital with isolated headache, a normal neurological examination and normal standard head CT in whom D-dimer was determined. Additionally we did a systematic review on articles describing consecutive patients suspected of CVT with isolated headache and their D-dimer values. CVT was investigated with CT or MR venography in all patients.

RESULTS

A total of 636 consecutive patients were collected from our own data and the literature search. Of 45 CVT patients one had a negative D-dimer (7.5 %). Sensitivity of D-dimer for diagnosing CVT was 97.8 % (95 % CI: 88.2-99.6 %), specificity was 84.9 % (95 % CI: 81.8-87.7 %), positive predictive value was 33.1 % (95 % CI: 25.2-41.7 %), negative predictive value was 99.8 % (95 % CI: 98.9-100 %). Another 56 isolated headache CVT patients were identified in literature, lacking consecutive isolated headache controls. Sensitivity of D-dimer for diagnosing CVT including these patients was 87.1 % (95 % CI: 79.0-93.0 %).

CONCLUSIONS

D-dimers have a high negative predictive value in patients with isolated headache for excluding CVT. Sensitivity is lower but comparable to the values accepted in PE and DVT. Low risk patients were defined as headache patients with a normal neurological examination, normal standard head CT and absence of risk factors such as pregnancy or puerperium. Normal D-dimers in these patients may reduce unnecessary imaging, making it a potential valuable marker.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: update on diagnosis and management

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is less frequent than ischemic stroke or intracerebral haemorrhage. Its incidence is comparable to that of acute bacterial meningitis in adults. Because of the increased use of magnetic resonance imaging (MR) for investigating patients with acute and subacute headaches and new onset seizures, CVT are now being diagnosed with increasing frequency. CVT have a more varied clinical presentation than other stroke types as they rarely present as a stroke syndrome. Their most frequent presentations are isolated headache, intracranial hypertension syndrome, seizures, a focal lobar syndrome and encephalopathy. The confirmation of the diagnosis of CVT relies on the demonstration of thrombi in the cerebral veins and/or sinuses by MR/MR venography or veno CT. The more frequent risk factors for CVT are prothrombotic conditions, either genetic or acquired, oral contraceptives, puerperium and pregnancy, infection and malignancy. The prognosis of CVT is in general favourable, as only around 15% of the patients remain dependent or die. The main intervention in the acute is anticoagulation with either low molecular weight or unfractionated heparin. In patients in severe condition on admission or who deteriorate despite anticoagulation, local thrombolysis or thrombectomy is an option. Decompressive surgery is life-saving in patients with large venous infarcts or haemorrhage. After the acute phase patients remain anticoagulated for a variable period of time, depending on their inherent thrombotic risk. CVT patients may experience recurrent seizures. Prophylaxis with antiepileptics is recommended after the first seizures, in particular in those with hemispheric lesions. There are several ongoing multicentre registries sand trials which will improve evidence-based management of CVT in the near future.

A case of cerebral venous thrombosis presenting as acute reversible visual loss: a rarely reported association

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is not an uncommon cause of stroke but very often unrecognized at initial presentation due to lack of clinical suspicion and thus frequently left untreated. CVST is a potentially serious condition which manifests with diverse clinical manifestations, from isolated headache to focal neurological signs and even coma. CVST usually takes place either an inherited thrombophilia or any acquired hyperviscosity state and thus prompting anticoagulation was regimen as is the cornerstone of successful treatment. We describe a 47-year-old woman who presented with recurrent bouts of vomiting in the post-operative period and later developed cortical blindness and asymmetric limb weakness. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed hyperintensity involving bilateral parieto-occipital corticomedullary junction. MR venography showed signal void in the superior sagittal sinus. She was diagnosed as CVST and achieved complete recovery with anticoagulation therapy. Bilateral occipital infarction as a consequence of cerebral venous thrombosis is a rare cause of visual loss. Thrombosis in the superior sagittal sinus was related to her cortical blindness and weakness. This case illustrates that cerebral venous thrombosis should be considered in cases of occipital vascular lesions leading to acute painless loss of vision prompting anticoagulation therapy which can improve the outcome significantly. Dehydration could be considered as a risk factor for development of CVST in appropriate situations.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombophlebitis as a complication of acute otitis media

BACKGROUND

While headache is a common emergency department chief complaint, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is an infrequently encountered cause of headache and is often not included in emergency physicians' differential diagnoses for headache. Our objective is to review the latest data on epidemiology, presenting symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of CVST.

CASE REPORT

A 27-year-old female presented to our emergency department with headache, blurred vision, and vomiting a day after being diagnosed with acute otitis media. Computed tomography scan of the brain without contrast in the emergency department was suggestive of CVST. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: Although a rare cause of headache, CVST should be considered for a subset of patients presenting to the emergency department with the common complaint of headache. CVST is diagnosed by magnetic resonance venogram or computed tomography venogram of the brain. Anticoagulation with close monitoring in consultation with appropriate experts is a safe first-line therapy for CVST, even in patients with hemorrhage on initial imaging.

Cerebral venous thrombosis-a primer for the haematologist

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a condition that can affect all age groups and can often be difficult to diagnose and treat. The difficulties in diagnosis are mainly due to the non-specific presenting features of CVT, which can range from isolated headache and visual or auditory problems, to serious symptoms such as hemiparesis and coma. Therefore, it can present to various specialists including general physicians, obstetricians and neurologists. In recent years, more widespread use of cerebral imaging has led to the diagnosis being made more often. Since thrombosis is the key component, haematologists are consulted in the management of these patients including for identification of a causative factor for CVT. In this regard, the pivotal International Study on Cerebral Vein and Dural Sinus Thrombosis (ISCVT) has shed more light on its epidemiology and management options. This review aims to provide guidance to haematologists when faced with a patient with CVT, based on the currently available evidence.

Cerebral venous thrombosis: a Moroccan retrospective study of 30 cases

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare origin of stroke, the clinical presentation and etiologies vary. The prognosis is shown to be better than arterial thrombosis. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and MR Venograpgy (MRV) are currently important tools for the diagnosis. We studied 30 cases of CVT diagnosed in the department of neurology at the University Hospital of Fez (Morocco). Patients diagnosed with CVT signs between January 2003 and October 2007 were included in the study. Cerebral CT-scan was performed in 27 cases (90%) while the MRI examination was done in 18 patients (67%); and most patients (90%) received anticoagulant therapy. The mean age of our patients was of 29 years (age range between 18 days and 65 years). A female predominance was observed (70%). The clinical presentation of patients was dominated by: headache in 24 cases (80%), motor and sensory disability in 15 cases (50%), seizures in 10 cases (33%), consciousness disorder in 10 cases (33%). CVT was associated to post-partum in 10 cases (33%), infectious origin in 8 cases (26%), Behçet disease in 2 cases (7%), pulmonary carcinoma in 1 case, thrombocytemia in 1 case and idiopathic in 7 cases (23%). The evolution was good in 20 cases (67%), minor squelaes were observed in 6 patients (20%), while major squelaes were observed in 2 cases. Two cases of death were registered. The CVT is a pathology of good prognosis once the diagnosis is promptly established and early heparin treatment initiated.

Cerebral venous thrombosis: clinical features, risk factors, and long-term outcome in a Tunisian cohort

BACKGROUND

Data from African countries regarding diagnosis, prognosis, management, and outcome of patients with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) are limited. The aim of the present study is to characterize clinical presentation, predisposing factors, neuroimaging findings, and outcomes of the disease in the Tunisian population.

METHODS

This is a prospective study including patients referred to the Neurology Department of the Military Hospital of Tunis between January 2009 and December 2012. The diagnosis of CVT was confirmed in all patients using magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance venography. The demographic, clinical, radiological, and outcome data were recorded and analyzed. Median follow-up was 16 months (range 6 months to 4 years). Primary outcome was death or dependency as assessed by modified Rankin score more than 2 at the end of follow-up.

RESULTS

This study included 41 patients with CVT. Mean age was 41.24 years, predominantly women (68%). The mode of onset was acute in 10 patients (24%), subacute in 26 (64%), and chronic in 5 (12%). The most common presenting features were headache, observed in 83% of the patients, followed by seizures, focal motor deficits, papilledema, and mental status changes. Lateral (56%) and superior longitudinal (51%) sinuses were the most commonly involved. Multiple sinuses were involved in 46% of cases. Nineteen patients (46%) had a D-dimer level more than 500 ng/mL. Major causes of CVT were thrombophilia (56%), either genetic or acquired, obstetric and gynecological (50%), and septic (34%). Outcome was favorable in 83% of patients. At the end of follow-up, 32 patients (78%) had complete recovery (modified Rankin Scale [mRs] score 0-1), 2 (5%) had partial recovery (mRs score 2), and 4 (10%) were dependent (mRs score 3-5). One patient (2.5%) had a recurrent sinus thrombosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our Tunisian population presented distinct risk factors profile with high frequency of thrombophilia, infections, and postpartum state. Oral contraceptive use is not a major risk factor in our population. The overall prognosis was good.

Cerebral venous thrombosis, pregnancy and oral contraceptives

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare variety of cerebro-vascular disease accounting for 0.5% of all stroke. It can occur at any age. It has a 3/1 female preponderance with a peak in young women due to gender specific risk factors, especially oral contraceptives and to lesser extent pregnancy, post-partum, and in vitro fertilization. Despite a wide variety of clinical presentations, early diagnosis, mostly based on MRI/MRA, is crucial but often difficult particularly during post-partum because of the numerous causes of headache that may occur after delivery. Antithrombotic treatment based on low molecular weight heparin and symptomatic treatment should be started as rapidly as possible. The overall prognosis of CVT is much better than that of arterial stroke and it is even better in women with gender specific risk factors, with a complete recovery in 80% of patients. Future pregnancy is not contra-indicated, but contraception with oestro-progestogens is definitely contra-indicated.

Evaluation of plasma D-dimer plus fibrinogen in predicting acute CVST

BACKGROUND

Prompt diagnosis of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is a challenge owing in part to its complex and non-specific early clinical symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the value of clinically useful biomarkers (d-dimer and fibrinogen) for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis prediction.

METHODS

Two-hundred and thirty-three suspected cerebral venous sinus thrombosis patients were enrolled in this prospective study. Thirty-four cases confirmed as cerebral venous sinus thrombosis using imaging modalities, whereas the other 199 cases served as mimic controls. Plasma samples of 34 healthy controls were further collected from age- and gender-matched volunteers. d-dimer and fibrinogen levels of all patients and controls were measured before imaging and treatment. The dynamic d-dimer and fibrinogen levels in cerebral venous sinus thrombosis cases after anticoagulation were monitored for up to 180 consecutive days.

RESULTS

At admission before treatment the average d-dimer and fibrinogen levels in cerebral venous sinus thrombosis group were 968·9 ± 160·1 μg/l and 6·9 ± 1·3 g/l, both of which were significantly elevated when compared with that of the controls. In cerebral venous sinus thrombosis patients, 94·1% had d-dimer elevation, 73·5% had fibrinogen elevation, and 67·6% had both elevated d-dimer and fibrinogen. During acute phase, the sensitivity and specificity of predicting cerebral venous sinus thrombosis using only d-dimer were 94·1% and 97·5%, whereas that of d-dimer in combination with fibrinogen were 67·6% and 98·9%. After administering anticoagulation, d-dimer levels gradually recovered; however, fibrinogen levels fluctuated with 33·3% of the patients still exhibiting elevated values up until 180 days.

CONCLUSIONS

d-dimer may serve as an important screening tool to determine the urgency of obtaining magnetic resonance imaging/magnetic resonance venography or digital subtraction angiography in patients presenting with clinical symptoms that are suspected of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Furthermore, d-dimer in combination with fibrinogen may increase the predictive value of acute cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.

D-dimer testing in the diagnosis of cerebral vein thrombosis: a systematic review and a meta-analysis of the literature

BACKGROUND

Quantitative measurement of circulating D-dimer, a product of fibrin degradation, has been shown to be a very useful diagnostic tool in the management of patients with suspected deep vein thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism. Whether D-dimer can play a similar role in the diagnostic approach to patients with suspected cerebral vein thrombosis (CVT) remains controversial.

METHODS

Studies evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of the D-dimer test in the diagnosis of CVT were systematically searched for in the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases (up to July 2011). Weighted mean sensitivity and specificity with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated with a bivariate random-effects regression approach.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies, for a total of 1134 patients, were included. D-dimer accuracy was good, with a resulting weighted mean sensitivity of 93.9% (95% CI 87.5-97.1) and weighted mean specificity of 89.7% (95% CI 86.5-92.2), calculated with a bivariate approach. Potential risk factors for false-negative D-dimer results included isolated headache, longer duration of symptoms, and limited sinus involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that D-dimer may be a useful diagnostic tool in the management of patients with suspected CVT. Future prospective studies are warranted to confirm our preliminary findings.

Cerebral vein thrombosis: clinical manifestation and diagnosis

Background

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a disease with a wide spectrum of symptoms and severity. In this study we analysed the predictive value of clinical signs and symptoms and the contribution of D-dimer measurements for diagnosis.

Methods

We evaluated consecutive patients admitted with suspected CVT receiving non-invasive imaging. Symptoms and symptom combination as well as D-dimer levels were evaluated regarding their diagnostic value.

Results

239 patients were included in this study, 170 (71%) were females. In 39 patients (16%) a CVT was found. For identifying a CVT patients underwent either a venous CT-angiography or MR-angiography or both. No combination of symptoms either alone or together with the D-dimer measurements had a sensitivity and positive predictive value as well as negative predictive value and specificity high enough to serve as red flag. D-dimer testing produced rates of 9% false positive and of 24% false negative results. For D-dimer values a Receiver Operating Characteristic curve (ROC) and the area under the curve (AUC = 0.921; CI: 0.864 - 0.977) were calculated. An increase of sensitivity above 0.9 results in a relevant decrease in specificity; a sensitivity of 0.9 matches a specificity value of 0.9. This corresponds to a D-dimer cut-off level of 0.16 μg/ml.

Conclusion

Imaging as performed by venous CT-angiography or MR-angiography has a 1 to 2 in 10 chance to detect CVT when typical symptoms are present. D-dimer measurements are of limited clinical value because of false positive and negative results.

Acute neurological issues in pregnancy and the peripartum

Acute neurological diseases requiring hospitalization are relatively rare in women of childbearing age. However, during pregnancy and the postpartum period, several diseases increase in prevalence. Some are unique to the pregnant/postpartum state including preeclampsia and delivery-associated neuropathies. Others, although indirectly related to pregnancy, such as cerebral venous thrombosis, ischemic stroke, and intracerebral hemorrhage, increase in frequency and carry considerable risk of morbidity and mortality. In addition, treatment options are often limited. This review discusses the diseases more commonly seen during pregnancy and the postpartum period, with a focus on emergent neurological diseases and their management. Interventional therapies will also be discussed.

Diagnosis and management of cerebral venous thrombosis: a statement for healthcare professionals from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this statement is to provide an overview of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis and to provide recommendations for its diagnosis, management, and treatment. The intended audience is physicians and other healthcare providers who are responsible for the diagnosis and management of patients with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Members of the panel were appointed by the American Heart Association Stroke Council's Scientific Statement Oversight Committee and represent different areas of expertise. The panel reviewed the relevant literature with an emphasis on reports published since 1966 and used the American Heart Association levels-of-evidence grading algorithm to rate the evidence and to make recommendations. After approval of the statement by the panel, it underwent peer review and approval by the American Heart Association Science Advisory and Coordinating Committee.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence-based recommendations are provided for the diagnosis, management, and prevention of recurrence of cerebral venous thrombosis. Recommendations on the evaluation and management of cerebral venous thrombosis during pregnancy and in the pediatric population are provided. Considerations for the management of clinical complications (seizures, hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension, and neurological deterioration) are also summarized. An algorithm for diagnosis and management of patients with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is described.

Cerebral venous thrombosis in an adolescent with ulcerative colitis

We describe a 17-year-old Caucasian adolescent with ulcerative colitis who presented with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Laboratory investigation revealed low protein S levels. With successful management the patient remained without neurologic sequalae. Although there may be an association between ulcerative colitis and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, the exact pathophysiologic mechanism remains unknown.

How to treat cerebral venous and sinus thrombosis

SUMMARY

Cerebral venous and sinus thrombosis (CVT) is a rare form of thrombosis, with many different clinical manifestations. Better imaging techniques have greatly improved the diagnosis, but as a result of the paucity of controlled trials, choosing the optimal treatment for each patient often remains a challenge. Heparin is generally considered the mainstay of treatment, supported by data from a few small trials. More invasive treatment options are available, such as endovascular thrombolysis and--in more severe cases--decompressive hemicraniectomy. Furthermore, CVT is often accompanied by various neurological complications, such as seizures and intracranial hypertension, which require specific treatment. In this review we summarize the available treatment options for CVT and suggest which therapy should be reserved for which patients.