L5

DIFFERENTIATING VENOUS SINUS THROMBOSIS FROM ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA

Presenter: Mark Dias

Abstract Category: Medical

Instruction Level: Advance

Presentation: Click Here

Description:         

The discussion will review the presenting features, precipitating factors and differentiating features of sinovenous thrombosis in infancy, contrasting it with the features of abusive head trauma in this age group.

Abstract:

Abusive head trauma leads to brain injury and intracranial hemorrhage; clinical sequelae include changes in mental status and seizures. Venous sinus thrombosis can also lead to brain edema, intraparenchymal hemorrhage and extra-axial hemorrhage, and its radiographic features and clinical presentation can occasionally be confused with abusive head injury in infants. The presenting features, radiographic findings, precipitating features and differential diagnosis of sinovenous thrombosis and abusive head trauma will be reviewed. In addition, the author will present examples of sinovenous occlusion resulting from abusive head trauma. The mechanism of sinovenous thrombosis in the setting of abusive head injury is likely precipitated by tearing of bridging veins at their entry into the sinus, with resultant sinus thrombosis during or after the trauma.