Cavernous sinus

Cavernous Sinus

The Cavernous Sinus (pronunciation: /ˈkavərnəs/ /ˈsīnəs/) is a significant structure located within the human skull.

Etymology

The term "Cavernous Sinus" is derived from the Latin words "cavernosus" meaning "full of hollows or cavities" and "sinus" meaning "bend or curve". This is due to the structure's appearance and location in the skull.

Definition

The Cavernous Sinus is one of the dural venous sinuses that drain blood from the brain. It is a large, paired structure located on either side of the sella turcica, a depression in the sphenoid bone of the skull. The Cavernous Sinus is unique among the dural sinuses due to its structure and the numerous important nerves and vessels it contains.

Anatomy

The Cavernous Sinus is located in the middle cranial fossa, lateral to the sella turcica. It contains several important structures, including the internal carotid artery and several cranial nerves. The sinus is connected to the superior sagittal sinus and inferior sagittal sinus through the superior ophthalmic vein and inferior ophthalmic vein, respectively.

Clinical Significance

Due to its location and the important structures it contains, the Cavernous Sinus can be involved in several medical conditions. These include Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis, a serious condition where a blood clot forms in the sinus, and Cavernous Sinus Syndrome, a condition characterized by symptoms resulting from damage to the nerves within the sinus.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Cavernous sinus
Wikipedia's article - Cavernous sinus

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