Early detection of cerebral sinus venous thrombosis in an extremely low birth weight infant using cranial ultrasound—case report and literature review

Cerebral sinus venous thrombosis (CSVT) is a serious condition in premature infants. Early diagnosis is crucial, as untreated CSVT can progress to severe complications such as delayed-onset intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), which could lead to poor outcomes in this population.

This case highlights that serial cranial ultrasound can detect CSVT early, enabling prompt treatment and preventing subsequent complications.

We present the case of an extremely low birth weight infant diagnosed with CSVT based on cranial ultrasonography findings. The patient had no clinical symptoms or previously detected brain injury.

Anticoagulant therapy was initiated immediately after diagnosis. Clot resolution was observed on cranial ultrasound after 5 days and confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on the 82 day of life (36 + 4 weeks of gestational age).

This case shows the significant value of cranial ultrasound as a diagnostic tool in premature infants when MRI is not immediately available. Early detection and treatment using ultrasound may help prevent severe complications.