Carotid Web Diagnosed by Ultrasound Carotid Duplex in a Patient With Ischemic Stroke

Abstract

Carotid web (CW) is an atypical form of intimal fibromuscular dysplasia that occurs at the level of the carotid bulb. It is associated with ischemic strokes. The first report of this association was in 1967 and it is currently known to represent a significant percentage of cryptogenic stroke. We report the case of a young female patient with a history of transient ischemic attack who presented a cerebral infarction of the territory of the left middle cerebral artery. The diagnosis of CW was suggested by the findings of the ultrasound carotid duplex and was confirmed by digital subtraction angiography. Likewise, brain magnetic resonance angiography showed an incipient alteration in the morphology of the wall of the left internal carotid artery in its intracranial segment. Aspirin treatment was started and there was no recurrence up to two years of follow-up. CW represents a diagnostic challenge; it should be suspected in young adults with ischemic stroke. In them, studies of the supra-aortic vessels should be performed. Ultrasound carotid duplex can be a useful diagnostic tool.

Importance of multiplanar reformation angiographic images for the detection of carotid web: A case series

“…[ 6 ] In Latin American countries such as Peru, there are few reports of this etiology. [ 7 ] Some clinical characteristics, such as those found in our cases, can guide the diagnosis of CW. In these patients, it is important to perform angiographic studies of supra-aortic vessels such as CTA, MRA, or DSA.…”

“…Although ultrasonographic studies can detect CW, their detection capacity is operator dependent. [ 7 8 ]…”