A rare case of basilar artery dissection

Abstract

This case describes a 30-year-old Hispanic male who presented with a significant headache that started after a period of weightlifting and squatting. The patient was diagnosed with a basilar artery dissection. His only complaint was a headache that was exacerbated with exertion and sexual activity; there were no neurologic deficits. The diagnosis of basilar artery dissection was established and supported by findings on the CT angiogram of his head and neck. Basilar artery dissections are rarely seen, as they are likely underrecognized due to their varying clinical presentations; however, it is important to consider these phenomena due to the risk of progression and high morbidity rates.

Keywords

• headache
• antiplatelet
• anticoagulation
• exercise-related headache
• basilar artery dissection