Spontaneous Resolution of Two Dural Carotid-Cavernous Fistulas Presenting With Optic Neuropathy and Marked Congestive Ophthalmopathy

Two patients with dural carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs) presented with optic neuropathy and marked congestive ophthalmopathy, including 1 patient with a narrowed anterior chamber angle due to choroidal effusions. Endovascular intervention was planned but deferred for logistic reasons. While the patients awaited the procedures, the clinical features markedly improved, and time-resolved imaging of contrast kinetics (TRICKS) MRA was consistent with closure of the CCFs. These patients serve as a reminder that spontaneous resolution may occur in dural CCFs even when presenting clinical features are florid and vision appears to be threatened. In fact, a rapid worsening of clinical manifestations may be a sign that a dural CCF is about to close spontaneously.