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Journal of Medical Case Reports

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Open Access 01-12-2016 | Case report

Khat – a new precipitating factor for reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: a case report

Authors: Harith Baharith, Amy Zarrin

Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2016

Abstract

Background

Postpartum reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is one of the rare reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndromes. The clinical presentation is usually characterized by recurrent headache, focal neurological deficit, and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction seen on cerebral angiography.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 35-year-old Yemeni woman who presented with headache and focal neurological deficits that occurred 10 days after delivery, with segmental narrowing of cerebral arteries on angiography. She had significant clinical and radiological improvement on follow-up.

Conclusions

The presentation of our patient’s reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is unusual as she has two possible precipitating factors. In addition to being in the postpartum state, she also has a long history of chewing khat, a vasoactive substance commonly used by immigrants from Yemen. We hope that this case report will increase awareness among physicians about the use of this plant by immigrants from the horn of Africa and Yemen.

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Title: Khat – a new precipitating factor for reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: a case report
Authors: Harith Baharith
Amy Zarrin
Publication date: 01-12-2016
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports / Issue 1/2016
Electronic ISSN: 1752-1947
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13256-016-1155-5

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Khat – a new precipitating factor for reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: a case report

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusions

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