Cerebral vasculitis is inflammation of the blood vessel wall in the brain or spinal cord, causing neurological problems such as difficulty coordinating movements, headaches, and changes in how sensations are experienced. Treatment varies depending on the cause and can include immunosuppressive drugs and steroids. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent symptoms from worsening and potential damage to brain tissue.
Cerebral vasculitis, also called central nervous system vasculitis, is inflammation of the blood vessel wall in the brain or spinal cord. Symptoms of vasculitis that occurs in the brain include neurological problems such as difficulty coordinating movements, headaches, and changes in how sensations are experienced. A patient with this type of vasculitis can also develop tumors in the brain which can cause a herniated brain and coma. Underlying medical conditions are common causes, but some cases of this type of vasculitis do not result from another condition. Treatments vary depending on the cause and can include immunosuppressive drugs and glucocorticoids, which are types of steroids.
The general symptoms of cerebral vasculitis are often neurological disorders. Patients have difficulty coordinating all parts of the body necessary for movement. Headache occurs due to pressure in the brain. Confusion, memory problems, and seizures may also occur. Many of the general symptoms that you experience can also occur with other conditions affecting the central nervous system. It is not uncommon for medical professionals to suspect another condition to be the cause until proper tests are done.
Due to the wide range of cerebral vasculitis symptoms that can occur and the potential dangers that are possible, a quick and correct diagnosis is important. Treatment for vasculitis of the brain can be dangerous for a patient who does not actually have this type of vasculitis. Tests can provide a diagnosis. Patients may undergo angiography and biopsy procedure. Spinal taps allow the spinal fluid to be tested, and MRI images can provide images of blood vessels.
If cerebral vasculitis occurs due to another condition, the vasculitis is referred to as secondary. Treatment must address both conditions. The underlying condition must be treated to prevent recurring cases of vasculitis. Once the primary condition is under control, steroids and immune system suppressants may be given to treat the vasculitis. When no underlying condition is the cause, treatment often begins with steroids and then immune system suppressants if blood vessel inflammation does not respond to steroids alone.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of cerebral vasculitis is essential. If left untreated, symptoms progress and worsen. The pressure in the brain continues to build. This further reduces the blood flow and oxygen required for proper functioning. Additionally, continued or progressing pressure and inflammation can lead to degeneration of the affected blood vessels and potential damage to brain tissue. Tissue death can also occur due to a decrease in oxygenation.
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