Reversible cerebrovascular syndrome (RCVS) is a rare and often underrecognized cerebrovascular condition characterized by sudden and severe headaches that occur over days to weeks due to underlying widespread reversible cerebral arterial vasoconstriction. These headaches reach peak intensity within the first minute and are often described as “thunderclap” headaches. Although typically benign and self-limited, RCVS can lead to severe complications such as ischemic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. RCVS is commonly triggered by eclampsia and certain medications, particularly vasoconstrictive and chemotherapeutic agents.Diagnosis of RCVS is supported by cerebral angiography, which reveals the classic “sausage on a string” appearance of constricted cerebral arteries, although initial neuroimaging might not show abnormalities. Management of RCVS involves removing potential triggers, controlling symptoms such as headaches and seizures, and managing blood pressure. This activity reviews diagnostic imaging modalities, their interpretation, and evidence-based treatment approaches for RCVS, including medication management and lifestyle modifications, with an emphasis on the potential triggers, risk factors, and clinical presentations associated with RCVS. This activity provides healthcare providers the knowledge and skills to accurately and promptly diagnose RCVS, differentiate it from other cerebrovascular disorders, and initiate appropriate management strategies. In addition, this activity will explore strategies for patient education and follow-up care to ensure optimal outcomes and prevent recurrences, emphasizing the importance of diagnostic criteria and imaging interpretation to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary interventions.
- Provider:StatPearls, LLC
- Activity Link: https://www.statpearls.com/ArticleLibrary/viewarticle/28500
- Start Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- End Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- Credit Details: IPCE Credits: 1.5 hours
AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.5 hours
Nursing: 1.5 hours
Pharmacy: 1.5 hours - MOC Credit Details: ABS - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABS)
ABPATH - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABPATH)
ABA - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABA)
ABIM - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Medical Knowledge (ABIM)
ABS - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABS)
ABP - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment (ABP) - Commercial Support: No
- Activity Type: Enduring Material
- CME Finder Type: Online Learning
- Fee to Participate: Variable
- Measured Outcome: Learner Knowledge, Learner/Team Competence
- Provider Ship: Directly Provided
- Registration: Open to all
- Specialty: Adolescent Medicine, Cardiovascular, General Pediatrics, General Surgery, Hospital Medicine, Internal Medicine, Neuropathology (incl. Neuromuscular), Pain Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Pediatric Neurology