Reversible splenial lesion of the corpus callosum in migraine with aura.

INTRODUCTION

Migraine with aura has long been believed to be related to the phenomenon of cortical spreading depression. Clinically, there are no consistent neuroimaging findings corresponding to an attack of migraine with aura.

CASE REPORT

We describe a patient suffering from migraine with aura associated with a transient abnormality in the midline of the splenium of the corpus callosum, showed by a magnetic resonance imaging. Features of edema and restricted diffusion indicated that there was cytotoxic edema.

CONCLUSIONS

There have been reports of various etiologies associated with a temporary focal lesion in the splenium of the corpus callosum manifested as obviously restricted diffusion. These findings may be the consequence of a high vulnerability of the splenium of the corpus callosum to cytotoxic damage. Migraine with aura was considered to be the cause of the reversible focal injury of the splenium in this case. This association has not been reported earlier.