Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a relatively uncommon but important condition to be aware of in neuro-critical care practice. CVST refers to thrombosis of a cerebral venous sinus which can lead to venous ischemia, edema, and hemorrhage. Diagnosis of CVST can be challenging given the broad range of presenting symptoms that overlap with many common benign conditions. CVST is an important and often unrecognized cause of coma and intracerebral hemorrhage. CT or MR venography can accurately confirm the diagnosis. Prompt treatment with anticoagulation, even in the setting of intracerebral hemorrhage, may improve outcomes.