Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
CVST occurs when thrombus forms in the dural venous sinuses, obstructing cerebral venous drainage. Increased venous pressure causes vasogenic edema, reduced CSF absorption (raised intracranial pressure), and venous infarction with hemorrhagic transformation. The thrombotic process is often related to hypercoagulable states or local infection. Connect Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis to bedside cues you will reassess first: vitals trends, work of breathing, perfusion, mentation, and pain or ischemic equivalents when relevant. Boards reward recognizing when subtle instability outweighs reassurance, then selecting nursing actions that protect airway, circulation, and neurologic status before routine tasks.