Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome

Abstract

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a collective term used to describe pathological conditions with a similar clinical and radiological picture which is characterized by thunderclap headaches with a sudden onset and reversible segmental (multifocal) constriction of the cerebral arteries. The article is devoted to issues of terminology, genetic and clinical features of RSCV, and also discusses risk factors, differential diagnosis, complications and prognosis. Modern pathogenetic mechanisms and possible approaches to the treatment of this condition are presented.

Keywords

• reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome
• cerebral vasospasm
• thunderclap headache