Calcifications of cerebral medullary veins associated with carotid-jugular fistula

Unusual calcification of the cerebral medullary veins is noted in a 34-year-old mentally retarded female who had a right carotid-jugular anastomosis 30 years earlier. The patient was hospitalized because of a right neck mass, proptosis, and the recent onset of left flaccid hemiplegia. Arch aortography and CT of the head and neck were performed. Surgery to oblate the fistula provided dramatic relief of venous engorgement in the orbits and face. The finding of medullary vein calcification is emphasized because it is a hitherto unreported entity.