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Semin Thromb Hemost 2022; 48(03): 309-317
DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1742738
Review Article

Cerebral Venous Thrombosis

Anne Hege Aamodt
1   Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
,
Thor Håkon Skattør
2   Department of Radiology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Abstract

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare form of stroke that often affects younger age groups, especially reproductive age group females. CVT is a potentially fatal neurological condition that can be frequently overlooked due to the vague nature of its clinical and radiological presentation. Headache is the most common presenting symptom. However, a wide range of symptoms can be present and the symptom onset can be acute, subacute, or chronic. Neuroimaging is mandatory in cases where CVT is suspected. Both magnetic resonance venography and computed tomography venography can confirm a diagnosis of CVT. Anticoagulation with low-molecular-weight heparin is the mainstay of treatment. Intracranial hemorrhage is not considered a contraindication to the use of anticoagulants in CVT. Endovascular intervention is still controversial but can be a treatment option for patients with neurological deterioration or thrombus progression, despite the use of anticoagulation or with development of new or worsening intracerebral hemorrhage. Patients with CVT have an increased risk of recurrence of CVT and other types of venous thromboembolism. This review provides an overview of the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of CVT in adults. Commentary about increased presentation of CVT in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), or after immunization against COVID-19, is also provided.

Keywords

cerebral venous thrombosis - anticoagulants - endovascular intervention - cerebral hemorrhage


Publication History

Article published online:
15 February 2022

© 2022. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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