CLINICAL PROFILE AND MANAGEMENT OF CEREBRAL VENOUS SINUS THROMBOSIS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF SYMPTOMS, RISK FACTORS, AND OUTCOMES

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the clinical profile of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), focusing on symptom prevalence, risk factors, diagnostic challenges, and patient outcomes.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using medical records from January 2015 to December 2023 across multiple healthcare institutions. Patients aged 18 and older with confirmed CVST via neuroimaging were included. Data on symptoms, risk factors, diagnostic methods, imaging findings, and treatment outcomes were extracted and analyzed. Exclusion criteria included incomplete records, presence of other significant neurological conditions, and cases where CVST diagnosis was not confirmed by imaging.

Results: The study identified headache (85%), seizures (55%), focal neurological deficits (40%), and altered consciousness (30%) as the most common symptoms of CVST. Risk factors included hypercoagulable states (60%), oral contraceptive use (25%), postpartum period (20%), and systemic diseases (15%). Diagnostic challenges included variable symptom presentation (70%), overlap with other disorders (50%), and delayed imaging (30%). Imaging findings revealed venous sinus thrombosis in 90% of cases, cerebral edema in 60%, and hemorrhage in 40%. Early treatment was associated with favorable outcomes in 70% of patients, while 20% experienced residual deficits and 5% had mortality. Conclusion: CVST exhibits a diverse clinical presentation with significant implications for diagnosis and management. Headache is the most prevalent symptom, with risk factors predominantly related to hypercoagulability and hormonal changes. Diagnostic challenges and delays in imaging impact outcomes, but early intervention improves prognosis. Continued research and advancements in diagnostic techniques and treatment strategies are essential for better management of CVST and enhancing patient outcomes.

Keywords: Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, clinical profile, symptoms, risk factors, diagnostic challenges, treatment outcomes