Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in a young patient with ulcerative colitis A case report

Rationale: Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) represents one of the most alarming forms of hemostatic abnormalities that may occur in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Patient concerns: Here we report a case of a 25-year-old male with ulcerative colitis, who developed such thromboembolic complication during flare of the disease. CVST in our patient was clinically manifested by headache and nausea. Diagnosis: Angio-magnetic resonance imaging scan of the head revealed segments of contrast filling defects/absence indicating right dural venous sinus thrombosis of the transverse sinus. Intervention: Immediate treatment with low-molecular-weight heparin has been introduced and led to full remission of symptoms and total recanalization of the thrombotic cerebral regions. Outcomes: Currently (over 2 years after diagnosis) the patient is in remission of the disease, and no further thromboembolic complications have been observed. Lessons: Our case study highlights the clinical difficulties and challenges associated with diagnosis and treatment of CVST, as well as presents the current state of knowledge about this complication among patients with IBDs. Physicians taking care of IBD patients should be aware of this alarming hemostatic abnormality.