Cerebral venous thrombosis: a review.

BACKGROUND: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is less frequent than arterial thrombosis, presents in an atypical fashion, and is an uncommon cause of stroke. Although the functional outcome from CVT is better than arterial strokes, the outcome of CVT remains unpredictable and may lead to sequelae or even death if not recognized and treated early.

REVIEW SUMMARY: The clinical presentations, time of onset, and neuroimaging findings vary. Symptoms include headache, seizures, neurologic deficits, and altered consciousness. Causes include hematologic disorders, hypercoagulable states, pregnancy, and contraceptive medications. Treatment of this infrequent condition remains controversial and includes heparin infusions, intrasinus thrombolysis, and other endovascular procedures.

CONCLUSION: Further clinical trials are needed to address optimal treatment of this infrequent but potentially serious condition.