A case report of extensive cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: a sequela of COVID-19?

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious respiratory disease that is often the trigger for thrombotic complications. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) represents a small percentage of strokes, frequently proving to be a diagnostic challenge. We report a 31-year-old lady presenting with a persistent headache, 18 weeks after a mild COVID-19 illness. On her second visit, CT venography revealed extensive CVST. She was commenced on low-molecular-weight heparin, and was monitored closely in the neuro-medical intensive care unit. She was discharged 2 weeks later, with no residual neurological deficit, and commenced on a direct oral anticoagulant in the community. CVST should be considered in patients presenting with a refractory headache, with greater suspicion if previously infected with SARS-CoV-2.