Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: literature review

• Published in: The Egyptian Journal of Neurology, Psychiatry and Neurosurgery Psychiatry and Neurosurgery, 2023-01, Vol.59 (1), p.5-5
• Main Authors: Ribas, Michelle Zonkowski, Paticcié, Gabriela Ferreira, de Medeiros, Sara Diógenes Peixoto, de Oliveira Veras, Arthur, Noleto, Felipe Micelli, Dos Santos, Júlio César Claudino
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cerebral vasculitis; Literature reviews; Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome; Review; Thunderclap headache
• ISSN: 1110-1083; 1687-8329
• DOI: 10.1186/s41983-023-00607-9

Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome (RCVS) is a neurovascular condition characterized by a severe sudden-onset headache that may be associated with focal neurological deficits. On imaging, the suggestive finding corresponds to multifocal vasoconstriction of the cerebral arteries, with a spontaneous resolution of approximately 12 weeks. The identification of precipitating factors and diagnosis must be carried out early, so that adequate management is established and the patient has a good prognosis, given the risk of secondary complications and residual neurological deficits. This study consists of a literature review based on the analysis of articles published between 2017 and 2022 in PubMed, SciELO, and ScienceDirect on RCVS, intending to understand the clinical and radiological characteristics, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of patients with RCVS. The pathophysiology, drug management, and prognosis still lack solid evidence; therefore, further studies on RCVS are needed to expand medical knowledge and avoid underdiagnosis and inadequate treatment of this important condition.