Sinus thrombosis, or venous sinus thrombosis, is a rare type of blood clot found within the dural venous sinuses. The dura is the outermost of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Sinus thrombosis is often difficult to diagnose because symptoms vary from person to person depending on the location of the clot. They are commonly seen in people with genetic conditions that predispose them to blood clots or in women taking oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy.

A combination of surgical and nonsurgical approaches may be used to treat sinus thrombosis. Removal of the clot is recommended if a patient has swelling of the brain due to the reduced outflow of blood. If the cause of the thrombosis is infectious, antibiotics are always used. If a patient has a clotting disorder, blood thinners are usually required. Women who have had a venous sinus thrombosis on estrogen or progesterone supplements are recommended to not use these medications.

If you have questions or concerns about sinus thrombosis, call us at (206) 341-0420.