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Acute sphenoid sinusitis leading to contralateral cavernous sinus thrombosis: a case report

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  24 July 2013

S R Dyer
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology – Head/Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Michigan, USA
P J Thottam*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology – Head/Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Michigan, USA
S Saraiya
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology – Head/Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Michigan, USA
M Haupert
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology – Head/Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Michigan, USA
*
Address for correspondence: Dr P J Thottam, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Children's Hospital of Michigan, 1005 Michigan Catalpa Drive, Royal Oak, Detroit, MichiganUSA, 48067 Fax: +1 313 745 5848 E-mail: pthottam@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction:

The objective of this article was to report a case of isolated, acute, right-sided sphenoid sinusitis that progressed to contralateral cavernous sinus thrombosis in an 18-year-old male patient. We describe the atypical presentation of this case and discuss the relevant anatomy, pathogenesis, presentation, diagnostic evaluation and treatment.

Case report:

A case report of sphenoid sinusitis leading to contralateral cavernous sinus thrombosis was reviewed and presented along with a comprehensive literature review of the relevant anatomy, pathophysiology, microbiology, diagnostic work-up and treatment options.

Conclusion:

Cavernous sinus thrombosis is a rare clinical entity in the antibiotic era. However, limited sphenoid sinusitis may progress to cavernous sinus thrombosis in spite of maximal medical treatment, as highlighted in this case report. The mainstay of treatment includes early diagnosis allowing aggressive intravenous antibiotics and appropriate surgical management.

Type
Clinical Records
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2013 

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