Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a type of stroke that results from a blood clot in the dural venous sinuses, which drain blood from the brain. Symptoms may include headache, abnormal vision, any of the symptoms of stroke such as weakness of the face and limbs on one side of the body, and seizures.

Causes

The most common causes of CVST are conditions that cause the blood to clot more easily than normal, such as antiphospholipid syndrome, pregnancy, Factor V Leiden, and the use of birth control pills. Other risk factors include head injury, infection, and dehydration.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually by medical imaging, such as a CT scan or MRI of the brain, often followed by a venogram of the veins. A lumbar puncture may also be performed.

Treatment

Treatment is with anticoagulants (medications that prevent further clots from forming), and occasionally thrombolysis (medications that dissolve clots). In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the clot.

Prognosis

The prognosis of CVST is generally good, with most people recovering completely. However, some may have long-term neurological problems.

See also

• Stroke
• Venous thrombosis
• Anticoagulant