Case report: Early detection of vertebral artery dissection

Tóm tắt

Vertebral artery dissection (VAD) is a rare cause of ischemic stroke in young patients. The largely nonspecific symptoms and delayed presentation pose a serious diagnostic challenge. Patients with VAD usually describe a trivial minor neck trauma preceding the event. Such traumas may be associated with spinal manipulation or sudden movements of the neck. We present an unusual case of vertebral artery dissection in a 27-year-old female patient following an episode of neck massage. She developed dizziness and headache, nausea, and imbalance following the procedure. After investigations, the patient was diagnosed with VAD, and treatment was initiated. She was discharged in stable condition. This case suggests that careful history taking and awareness of the symptoms of VAD are necessary to diagnose this entity as timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent disability or even death.