When should I refer a patient with suspected CVST to secondary care, and what information should I provide to facilitate their assessment?

When to refer: Refer a patient with suspected cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) urgently to secondary care for specialist assessment and imaging if they present with symptoms suggestive of CVST, such as new onset headache, focal neurological deficits, seizures, or signs of raised intracranial pressure. Early referral is critical because CVST requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.

Information to provide: When referring, provide a detailed clinical history including the onset, nature, and progression of symptoms, any risk factors for thrombosis (such as recent surgery, pregnancy, infection, or thrombophilia), neurological examination findings, and any relevant past medical history. Also include any initial investigations performed, such as blood tests or imaging results if available. Clear communication of the clinical suspicion and urgency will facilitate timely assessment and management in secondary care.