Dural arteriovenous fistula of the anterior cranial fossa associated with a ruptured ophthalmic aneurysm: case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND: Dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) accompanied by intracranial aneurysms is an extremely rare situation. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 65-year-old man presented with sudden loss of consciousness for about half an hour. Computed tomographic scan of the brain showed subarachnoid hemorrhage. Angiogram revealed an ophthalmic aneurysm. In addition, a DAVF located in the anterior cranial fossa was also found. The ruptured aneurysm was completely occluded by coil embolization and the DAVF of the anterior cranial fossa was treated with gamma knife radiosurgery after an uneventful postoperative course. The patient was managed nonoperatively and discharged with close follow-up. CONCLUSION: An unusual case of anterior cranial fossa DAVF associated with a ruptured ophthalmic aneurysm is reported. We feel special consideration may be required in deciding the priority of treatment in such cases.