Spontaneous intracranial hypotension with diffuse dural enhancement of the spinal canal and transient enlargement of the pituitary gland

Eur J Radiol. 2001 Apr;38(1):59-63. doi: 10.1016/s0720-048x(01)00288-1.

Abstract

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension is a rare phenomenon characterized by postural headache, neck rigidity, nausea and vomiting. Imaging findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is characteristic with diffuse intracranial pachymeningeal thickening and enhancement following intravenous gadolinium. We present a case of spontaneous intracranial hypotension with two unusual imaging findings; pachymeningeal enhancement of the spinal canal and enlargement of the pituitary gland in addition to the diffuse intracranial pachymeningeal enhancement. In this case report, we will discuss the clinical features, MRI findings and underlying pathophysiology of this rare condition.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Dura Mater / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Hypotension / diagnosis*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Pituitary Gland / pathology*
  • Spinal Canal / pathology*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed