Clinical presentation and management of SMART syndrome

Stroke-like migraine attacks after radiation therapy (SMART) syndrome represents a rare but serious condition manifesting years after cranial radiation therapy (RT). Characterized by migraine-type headaches, stroke-like deficits and/or seizures and MR imaging abnormalities, including cortical gyriform enhancement in irradiated brain regions, SMART remains diagnostically and therapeutically challenging. Distinction from tumor progression is difficult and treatment options are limited. Although frequently reversible, SMART episodes can recur and effectuate persistent neurologic and/or imaging sequelae.