Postpartum Cervicocephalic Artery Dissection

Abstract
Background and Purpose— Cervicocephalic artery dissection (CAD) after childbirth is rare. The objective of this study was to determine differences between postpartum and nonpostpartum CAD. Methods— We compared consecutive patients with postpartum CAD with a control group of women with nonpostpartum CAD. Results— Of 245 patients with CAD, 102 women P =0.017), reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (2 of 6 versus one of 96; P =0.009), and subarachnoid hemorrhage without signs of intracranial extension of CAD (2 of 6 versus zero of 96; P =0.003). Conclusion— CAD and associated conditions should be looked for in women with unusual headache after childbirth.