Korean J Med.  2015 Jan;88(1):64-68. 10.3904/kjm.2015.88.1.64.

A Case of Postpartum Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome

• Lee HJ
• Lee DH
• Jung HC
• Moon KW

• KMID: 2269172
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3904/kjm.2015.88.1.64

Abstract

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is characterized by development of a severe thunderclap headache with or without other acute neurological symptoms, and by multifocal or diffuse segmental vasoconstriction of the cerebral arteries that resolves spontaneously within 3 months. Several precipitating factors have been identified; these include the use of adrenergic or serotonergic drugs and postpartum status. Diagnosis is aided by the dynamic nature of the clinicoradiological features, including a 'beads-on-a-string' appearance of the cerebral arteries on angiography, and complete (or near-complete) resolution of the condition evident on repeat angiography performed 3 months after initial onset. Calcium channel blockers such as nimodipine seem to relieve the severe headache within 48 h. Here, we present the case of a female who developed RCVS postpartum.

Keyword

Vasculitis; Vasoconstriction

MeSH Terms

Angiography
Calcium Channel Blockers
Cerebral Arteries
Diagnosis
Female
Headache
Headache Disorders, Primary
Humans
Nimodipine
Postpartum Period*
Precipitating Factors
Serotonin Agents
Vasculitis
Vasoconstriction*
Calcium Channel Blockers
Nimodipine
Serotonin Agents