Vertebral artery dissection from neck flexion during paroxysmal coughing.

Abstract

Vertebral artery dissection has a characteristic presentation that should be considered when symptoms are preceded by any trauma that causes neck movement. We present the case of a man with vertebral artery dissection following severe coughing that presented as a postero-inferior cerebellar artery territory stroke. The patient was anti-coagulated, and his neurologic deficits were partially resolved. The mechanism and presentation of vertebral artery dissection are discussed with an emphasis on early detection.