Diffuse cerebral vasoconstriction (Call-Fleming syndrome) and stroke associated with antidepressants

Neurology. 2006 Jul 11;67(1):159-60. doi: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000223648.76430.27.

Abstract

Call-Fleming syndrome is a reversible segmental vasoconstriction of cerebral arteries manifested by a "thunderclap" headache and focal neurologic symptoms. Although of unknown etiology, it has been reported in association with vasoactive sympathomimetic drugs. The authors report Call-Fleming syndrome in two patients with history of antidepressant use. Although the association is hypothetical, the authors suggest consideration of Call-Fleming syndrome in patients presenting with headache, focal deficits, and evidence of cerebral ischemia during antidepressant use.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antidepressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Cerebral Arteries / drug effects*
  • Cerebral Arteries / physiopathology*
  • Constriction, Pathologic / etiology*
  • Constriction, Pathologic / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography / methods
  • Middle Aged
  • Stroke / etiology*
  • Stroke / pathology
  • Vasoconstriction / drug effects*

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents