Bilateral abducens nerve palsies and urinary retention caused by the rupture of a vertebral artery aneurysm: A case report and literature review. Issue 3 (January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Peng, Guoping; Zhou, Jiajia
• Other Names: NA. section editor.
• Is Part Of: Medicine. Volume 97:Issue 3(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018-01
• Subjects: abducens nerve palsy -- urinary retention -- vertebral artery aneurysm; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine -- Périodiques; Geneeskunde; Medicine; Periodicals; Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000009155
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-7974

Abstract

Abstract: Rationale: Bilateral abducens nerve deficits caused by vertebral artery (VA) aneurysm have been reported, but there have been no reports regarding accompanying urinary retention. Patient concerns: In this report, we describe an unusual case with bilateral abducens nerve palsy and urinary retention due to rupture of a vertebral aneurysm. Diagnoses: Subarachnoid hemorrhage caused by the rupture of a left VA aneurysm. Interventions: The VA aneurysm was successfully controlled by coil embolization. Outcomes: Urinary retention was improved after embolization and recovered by the day the patient left hospital. The bilateral abducens nerve palsy gradually recovered 6 months later. Lessons: This case emphasizes the importance of maintaining a broad, open mind in approaching the diagnosis and management of urinary retention associated with cranial nerve symptoms and reacting quickly to the clinical developments.