O Ortiz1, J Voelker, F Eneorji. 1. Department of Radiology, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown 26506-9235, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The association of intracranial aneurysm and pregnancy is uncommon. Hemodynamic stress plays an important role in the growth of aneurysms. METHODS: The authors report the case of an enlarging cavernous carotid aneurysm in a pregnant 15-year-old young woman. RESULTS: The aneurysm was initially diagnosed prior to the patient's pregnancy by both cross-sectional imaging and cerebral angiography. Further imaging evaluation was required during pregnancy, which demonstrated significant enlargement of the aneurysm. Following delivery, the lesion decreased in size. CONCLUSIONS: We review potential factors associated with pregnancy that may increase hemodynamic stress and influence aneurysm growth. Additionally, the management of pregnancy-related intracranial aneurysms is discussed.
BACKGROUND: The association of intracranial aneurysm and pregnancy is uncommon. Hemodynamic stress plays an important role in the growth of aneurysms. METHODS: The authors report the case of an enlarging cavernous carotid aneurysm in a pregnant 15-year-old young woman. RESULTS: The aneurysm was initially diagnosed prior to the patient's pregnancy by both cross-sectional imaging and cerebral angiography. Further imaging evaluation was required during pregnancy, which demonstrated significant enlargement of the aneurysm. Following delivery, the lesion decreased in size. CONCLUSIONS: We review potential factors associated with pregnancy that may increase hemodynamic stress and influence aneurysm growth. Additionally, the management of pregnancy-related intracranial aneurysms is discussed.