Cryptogenic Stroke Secondary to Rare Carotid Web?

Abstract

Understanding the pathogenesis and the typical imaging features of carotid artery web, and accurately diagnosing the carotid artery web will help to implement targeted intervention for cryptogenic stroke and reduce the recurrence of stroke events. Carotid web (CW) can be defined as an endoluminal shelf-like projection often noted at the origin of the internal carotid artery just beyond the bifurcation. It is recognized as a possible cause of ischemic stroke in young adults. We describe here a case of ischemic stroke caused by a CW in a healthy man. Detection of this vascular abnormality required the use of computed tomography angiography. CW is a specific anatomical structure. Its imaging and clinical manifestations are different from atherosclerosis. It's also is a latent etiology to cryptogenic stroke. CW should be considered in patients with otherwise cryptogenic stroke, otherwise healthy patients presenting with stroke and without the typical risk factors for atherosclerotic carotid disease and stroke.