Extracranial internal carotid artery aneurysm: a rare cause of stroke

Aneurysms of the extracranial carotid artery are rare but may have debilitating clinical consequences. A case causing a cerebrovascular accident is reported followed by a discussion of the clinical features, investigation and treatment of this condition. Aneurysms usually develop in the common or internal carotid artery (ICA) and presentation typically results from cerebral embolization. Distal ICA lesions are often not detected during ultrasound examinations, and computed tomography is most commonly used to plan treatment. This may be performed by open surgery or endovascular intervention.