MRI diagnosis of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis

Objective To investigate the diagnostic value of MRI in cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Methods There were 6 cases of cerebral sinus thrombosis including 4 cases of male and 2 cases of female age ranged from 20 to 54 years old. MRI were performed in all 6 cases in which Gd-DTPA enhancement in 4 cases magnetic resonance venographyMRV studies in 3 cases. MRI and MRV images were analyzed and compared with DSA images. Results The thrombosis of superior sagittal sinus inferior sagittal sinus and straight sinus was seen in 5 cases and 1 case respectively. Brain swelling was seen in all 6 cases. And venous infarction was seen in 2 cases. Abnormal venous enhancement were found on contrast enhanced MRI in 4 cases. MRI showed the normal flow void of the dural sinus disappeared instead abnormal high signal intensities were found. The signs of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in MRV include loss of vascular flow signal or a frayed appearance of the venous sinus. The locations and scope of these lesions in DSA were the same as that in MR. Conclusion MRI and MRV are the first choice for diagnosis of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.