Clinical characteristics, etiology, recanalization rates and neurological outcomes in CVT: A prospective cohort study

Background: Recanalization rates in cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) and its effect on neurological outcome have been debated worldwide and are inadequately addressed in studies from India. Our objective was to study the clinical profile of CVT and determine recanalization rates with its predictors and its effect on outcome. Methods: A prospective single centre cohort study on 101 patients with radiologically confirmed acute CVT between October 2018 and June 2021 was conducted. Anticoagulation was given for 3-12 months or lifelong for thrombophilias. Recanalization status of vessels was assessed between 3-6 months and at 12 months after ictus. Outcome was defined as favorable (mRS 0-1) or unfavorable. Patients with atleast one CT/MR venogram on follow up were included. Results: Of the 101 enrolled patients, 83 completed study protocol. Mean age of patients was 34.2 ± 11.7 years. Clinical characteristics included headache (75.9%),seizure (66.2%), altered mentation(20.4%) with clustering of cases during summers. Transverse- sigmoid sinuses were predominantly involved (66.2 %) followed by superior sagittal sinus (SSS,65.0%). Commonest etiologies were thrombophilia (27.7%) and postpartum state (15.6%). Complete recanalization was achieved in 67.4%, partial in 26.5% and no recanalization in 6.02% at end of 12 months. Recanalization rates improved from 83.09% between 3-6 months to 93.9 % at 12 months. Median time to last follow-up was 12months and at last follow up 95.1% had favorable mRS with recurrence in two patients with raised factor VIII levels. Conclusion: Recanalization occurred in more than 90% of CVT patients. Isolated superior sagittal sinus thrombosis and age <50 years were predictors of complete recanalization. Most patients, except few achieved a favorable mRS.