Dural arteriovenous fistula presenting with brainstem hemorrhage: case report

Abstract

Objective: We report a rare case of sigmoid sinus dural arteriovenous fistula causing brainstem hemorrhage.Case Presentation: The patient was a 77-year-old woman who presented with right hemiparesis. Computed tomography of the head revealed pontine hemorrhage with marked perifocal edema. Cerebral angiography showed a sigmoid sinus dural arteriovenous fistula with drainage to the superior petrosal sinus connecting to the petrosal and transverse pontine veins. Transvenous embolization was successfully performed, resulting in complete occlusion.Conclusion: Brainstem hemorrhage can result from dural arteriovenous fistula. Careful diagnosis is important to avoid inappropriate treatment and adverse events.