Cerebral venous thrombosis in obstetrics: literature review and clinical case reports

The first case of cerebral venous thrombosis, described in the past century, was identified in obstetric patients in 1825. The clinical manifestations represent a real diagnostic challenge due to the few recorded cases, the wide variety of possible clinical symptoms, and the diversity of medical conditions that cause it. In the past century, the etiology was mainly associated with septic processes; however, due to the widespread use of antibiotics, this cause has been considerably reduced. In the context of the puerperium, several conditions make this group of patients more vulnerable, such as dehydration, hypercoagulable state, iron deficiency, puerperal sepsis, and preeclampsia, the latter is particularly known for an endothelial lesion with different degrees of associated severity, according to the clinical phenotype present. This review aims to highlight the most relevant aspects of cerebral thrombosis in the context of a puerperal patient. It will also present clinical cases reports treated successfully in this health unit.