What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• RCVS (Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome)

What is Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome? (Definition/Background Information)

• Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome (RCVS) is an infrequent cerebrovascular disorder
• It is characterized by severe headaches with or without focal neurological deficits or seizures, and a reversible segmental and multifocal vasoconstriction of cerebral arteries

(Source: Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome; Orphanet, National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Paris.)

Who gets Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome is an extremely rare disorder 
• The onset of symptoms typically occurs in adulthood
• Although both genders may be affected, the condition is more common in women under 50 years of age

What are the Risk Factors for Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors have been clearly identified for Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome may include:

• Women below 50 years of age
• Use of illicit drugs
• Being on selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
• Childbirth (post-partum)

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome is not known at the present time.

• It is theorized that the condition is caused by a transient disturbance in the control of cerebral vascular tone
• Having given birth to a child recently, use of vasoactive drugs, such as illicit drugs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are also known to contribute to the development of this disorder

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome?

The signs and symptoms of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome may include:

• Acute headache
• Seizures

How is Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome Diagnosed?

Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Complete physical examination
• Thorough medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• Laboratory tests
• Imaging studies
• Biopsy studies, if necessary

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome?

The complications of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome may include:

• Ischemic stroke
• Hemorrhagic stroke

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome Treated?

• Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome may be treated with pain medication for headache 
• If stroke occurs as a complication, then use of blood-thinning drugs and/or surgery may be necessary

How can Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome be Prevented?

Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome may not be preventable, if it occurs as a result of childbirth

• However, if the condition is associated with illicit drugs, discontinuing the use of such substances may minimize the occurrence of RCVS
• Consulting with a healthcare professional about prescription drugs that may cause this condition may also be advisable
• Active research is currently being performed to explore the possibilities for treatment and prevention of disorders such as Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome

Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended.

What is the Prognosis of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome is dependent upon the severity of the signs and symptoms and associated complications, if any
• Complications such as stroke may have unfavorable consequences and have a negative impact on one’s quality of life
• Typically, the prognosis may be assessed on a case-by-case basis

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/