Clinical Image–Vertebral artery beading in a child with Beta Thalassemia major

Vertebral artery beading is an uncommon, vascular complication associated with various systemic conditions. We describe the vascular imaging of a 11-year-old boy with Beta Thalassemia Major who developed acute ataxia following a splenectomy. MR angiography revealed a notable finding: symmetric, bilateral vertebral artery beading; while Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) was normal. This case highlights an intriguing imaging feature that mimics vasculopathy, underscoring the importance of careful interpretation in such contexts.