Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome.

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a cerebrovascular disorder with a clinical picture that continues to be refined. It has presented to multiple subspecialties over the past several decades, bringing with it many questions regarding risk factors, diagnosis, and management. Answers have been forthcoming but many questions remain. RCVS presents with recurrent, secondary thunderclap headaches and predominantly affects young women. The mechanism of vasoconstriction is unclear, but there has been speculation regarding a hyperadrenergic state. Diagnosis requires physician awareness, vascular imaging, and knowledge of the differential. The hallmark of its diagnosis is reversibility. Management is empiric, usually with calcium-channel blockers, as there are no controlled treatment trials for RCVS. Randomized controlled trials are needed.

Medical Subject Headings

Adult; Coronary Angiography; Female; Humans; Tomography, X-Ray Computed; Vasoconstriction; Vasospasm, Intracranial; Vertebral Artery

Publication Date

3-1-2013

Publication Title

Headache

ISSN

1526-4610

Volume

53

Issue

3

First Page

570

Last Page

576

PubMed ID

23489219

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1111/head.12040

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