Dissection of the vertebral arteries: case report and discussion.
Vertebral artery dissection is an unusual condition with potentially protean neurologic presentations. It may occur spontaneously or follow apparently minor neck trauma. Ischemic symptoms related to the posterior circulation ensue and may be due to obstruction or embolization. The ensuing stroke is ischemic, although subarachnoid hemorrhage may be a complication as well. A case of vertebral artery dissection in a young woman who developed symptoms approximately one week after mild neck injury is reported, and the topic is reviewed.
Department of Emergency Medicine, Mt. Sinai Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio 44106.
J
J
Glauser
O M
OM
Hastings
M
M
Mervart
M A
MA
Volk
M
M
Bahntge
D000328:Adult; D000784:Aortic Dissection / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D004630:Emergencies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D019838:Neck Injuries; D011859:Radiography; D014711:Vertebral Artery / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging