Dense Basilar Artery Sign Preceding Basilar Artery Territory Infarction

Abstract

Magnetic Reasonance Imaging (MRI) is considered to be superior to CT in cases suspected to have Basilar Territory (BAT) infactions. Here is a case where no neurological abnormality was noted when examined by the family physician, and the CT scan was also reported normal. However, nine hours later, the patient developed intense vertigo, vomiting, left-sided parasthesia and unsteadiness of gait and became unconscious an hour later. Review of the initial CT showed the "dense basilar artery sign" and the repeated CT showed the infarctions involving mid brain, pons, medulla and bilateral hemispheres.