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Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis — SCE Acute Medicine MCQ

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HardAcute Neurological PresentationsCerebral venous sinus thrombosisSCE Acute Medicine

A 32-year-old woman is assessed on the acute medical unit. She is 3 weeks postpartum with progressive headache, papilloedema and a focal seizure. CT venography shows superior sagittal sinus thrombosis. Initial assessment includes relevant observations, bedside tests and urgent blood results. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: C — Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is the best answer because postpartum headache with seizure and venous thrombosis indicates CVST. Pulmonary embolism is plausible, but it is less appropriate for the physiology or timing described in this stem. The other distractors either fit a neighbouring presentation, delay definitive treatment, or miss the key immediate risk. Clinical pearl: CVST can present with raised intracranial pressure rather than arterial-territory signs.

Reference: NICE CKS headache; stroke guidance