Multiple Cervical Arteries Dissection Associated With Fibromuscular Dysplasia: A Case Report

TL;DR

A 30-year-old woman with fibromuscular dysplasia experienced rare multiple cervical artery dissections leading to severe neurological complications.

Contribution

This case report highlights the rare occurrence of triple cervical artery dissection associated with fibromuscular dysplasia.

Findings

Fibromuscular dysplasia was confirmed as the underlying cause of dissections in three cervical arteries.

Antiplatelet therapy led to significant recovery, allowing the patient to perform daily activities independently.

Abstract

Spontaneous cervical artery dissection is a condition often associated with connective tissue diseases, such as fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD), a complex angiopathy primarily affecting medium‐sized arteries. While single‐vessel dissection is more common, simultaneous involvement of three cervical arteries is rare. We present the case of a 30‐year‐old female patient who suffered from bilateral cerebellar infarction, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and hydrocephalus, necessitating external ventricular drainage and posterior fossa decompressive craniectomy. Multimodal imaging, including computed tomography angiography (CTA), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and digital subtraction angiography (DSA), confirmed the presence of FMD with dissections involving the right internal carotid artery and both vertebral arteries. Following a two‐month course of antiplatelet therapy, the patient experienced minimal residual symptoms, enabling independent daily activities. Given that FMD is an underrecognized cause of multiple cervical artery dissections, clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion when encountering such cases. This case highlights the importance of thorough investigation and management in similar clinical presentations.

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