Uniform hyperdense vessels in non-contrast CT of brain: An unusual finding in plain CT scan diagnostic of polycythemia

Abstract

Polycythemia is a blood disorder in which the proportion of blood occupied by red blood cells increases. It is reflected in raised hematocrit and hemoglobin values. Elevated hematocrit results in characteristic findings of increased attenuation of cerebral vessels and venous sinuses on unenhanced computed tomography. However, these imaging findings can closely mimic those of cerebral venous thrombosis, leading to diagnostic ambiguity. We present a case of polycythemia with typical features of hyperdense cerebral vasculature on non-enhanced computed tomography.