Abstract
Introduction Hypoplastic basilar (BA) and vertebral arteries (VA) can cause posterior circulation infarctions. Distinction between hypoplastic and atherosclerotic BA can be difficult with usual angiographic methods (MR, CT or conventional angiographies), only showing arterial luminogram. High-resolution MRI (HRMRI) of the arterial wall is promising in identifying intracranial artery plaques. Observation A 70-year-old man with vascular risk factors suddenly presented with vertigo. MRI showed no brain infarction. Contrast-enhanced MRA showed small and irregular BA lumen compatible with severe atherosclerotic stenosis. An associated persistent primitive trigeminal artery was noticed. HRMRI of the BA rectified the initial angiographic diagnosis by showing a normal vessel wall without any thickening that could suggest atherosclerotic plaque. Conclusion In the event of BA lumen narrowing, HRMRI may help distinguish between hypoplastic and atherosclerotic artery.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
