Sagittal Sinus Thrombosis (Venous Blood Clot)
Description
A rare cause of stroke. The dural sinuses drain blood from the brain. A throbosis or clot in this sinus causes the disorder. Patients experience headache and a variety of neurologic symptoms including confusion, weakness, seizures, slurred speech, and incoordination. At times patients have a pre-existing clotting disorder.
Symptoms
Headache, weakness, confusion, slurred speech, seizures, fainting, coma.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is confirmed by imaging the veins and identifying that the blood clot is in the venous sinus. A Ct venogram or MR venogram is performed to make the diagnosis.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
Therapy depends on the extent of the disease. Medications include: heparin, enoxaparin (Lovenox), warfarin (Coumadin), and anti-seizure medications. Thrombolysis (dissolving of the blood clot) is considered for severe disease. Some patients require surgery to control the intracranial pressure.
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