CVT is a rare form of stroke where a blood clot forms in a vein of the brain. Cerebral veins are responsible for draining blood from part of your brain into larger veins called cerebral sinuses. Clots can form in the smaller cerebral veins, the cerebral venous sinuses or both. Increased pressure in a cerebral vein can result from this and lead to bleeding or significant brain swelling. If diagnosed early, CVT can be treated effectively, preventing life-threatening complications.
What Are Signs and Symptoms?
Signs and symptoms of CVT mirror other neurological conditions, like stroke, and can include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Numbness or weakness in one spot over another
- Blurry vision or vision loss
Who is at Risk for CVT?
The groups most at risk include young people, women of reproductive age and those with conditions that increase the risk of blood clots, including cancer and pregnancy.
If you have a blood disorder that affects how your blood clots, head trauma or an infection in your ears, face or neck, you are at risk for CVT. However, some cases of CVT occur for unknown reasons.
How is CVT Diagnosed?
Doctors use imaging to help diagnose CVT, including:
- Magnetic resonance imaging venogram
- Computed tomography venogram
- Diagnostic cerebral angiogram
How is CVT Treated?
The main treatment for CVT is medication to help treat and prevent blood clots, called anticoagulation (heparin, enoxaparin sodium, warfarin, apixaban, etc.). If medication does not work or if your condition worsens, your doctor may remove the clot through a minimally invasive approach by using wires and catheters from a vein in the groin or the arm. If you’re experiencing a large bleed or have a stroke due to CVT, more invasive surgery may be needed to relieve the pressure in your head.
UofL Health is Here for You
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of CVT, seek help immediately by calling 911. UofL Health has seven emergency rooms staffed 24/7 with board-certified emergency medicine physicians and specially certified nurses, with direct access to specialists and resources. Learn more about our emergency care options.
Your emergency care provider will collaborate with a neurosurgeon to ensure you receive the best care possible. UofL Physicians – Neurosurgery, part of the UofL Health – Brain & Spine Institute, is here to assist you in getting diagnosed and starting the best treatment options for your experience. For follow-up appointments after a CTV experience or for second opinions, please call 502-588-2160.
