Contrast-Enhanced Cerebral MR Venography Overcomes Causes of Drop of Signal in Time of Flight MR Venography

Abstract

Background: Cerebral venous thrombosis is uncommon disease with vague manifestations. Magnetic resonance venography (MRV) plays an important role in its diagnosis. The cardinal MRV sign of venous sinus thrombosis is sinus drop of signal. Using time of flight MR venography (TOF MRV) -the commonly used technique there are multiple causes of signal drop simulating dural sinus thrombosis. Aim of Study: To diagnose different causes of signal drop on TOF MRV using contrast enhanced MRV to avoid misinterpretation of dural sinus thrombosis.Conclusion: Drop of signal in dural venous sinuses using TOF MRV has many causes other than thrombosis. To avoid misinterpretation it is important to use contrast enhanced MRV either TRICKS or elliptic centric techniques.