venous sinus thrombosis
Also written as: VST — venous sinus thrombosis
Thrombotic occlusion of cerebral venous sinuses causing impaired venous drainage and potential hemorrhagic infarction.
Full Definition
Venous sinus thrombosis involves the formation of blood clots within the cerebral venous sinuses, leading to impaired venous drainage from the brain. This condition can cause increased intracranial pressure, venous infarcts, and hemorrhagic transformation. On imaging, acute thrombus may appear hyperintense on T1-weighted images and show absence of normal flow void on T2-weighted sequences. MR or CT venography demonstrates filling defects within the affected sinuses. Associated findings may include hemorrhagic venous infarcts, cerebral edema, and papilledema. Common predisposing factors include pregnancy, oral contraceptives, dehydration, and hypercoagulable states.
Usage
Usage note: Specify which sinus is involved (sagittal, transverse, sigmoid, etc.).
In Context
- "Superior sagittal sinus thrombosis was confirmed on MR venography." — Emergency MRI report
- "Bilateral hemorrhagic venous infarcts secondary to venous sinus thrombosis were identified." — Stroke imaging study