Cavernous sinus thrombosis

Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis (CST)

File:Gray488 blue.gif

Anatomical illustration showing the cavernous sinus in the human brain.

Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis (CST) is a rare but severe condition where a blood clot forms in the cavernous sinus — a cavity at the base of the brain that drains deoxygenated blood from the brain back to the heart.

Types of Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis

CST can be categorized into two types:

• Septic Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis: The more common form, usually caused by an infection.
• Aseptic Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis: Less common, often associated with conditions like inflammatory diseases or injuries.

Causes

The primary cause of CST is usually an infection spreading from the nose, sinuses, ears, or teeth. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species are often implicated.

Symptoms

Symptoms of CST can include:

• Severe headache
• Fever
• Visual disturbances
• Eye pain and bulging eyes
• Swelling around the eyes

Diagnosis

File:Luft im Sinus cavernosus 83M - CT axial und sagittal - 001.jpg

CT scan of the head, a diagnostic tool used in cases of CST.

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like CT or MRI scans of the brain, alongside clinical examination and medical history.

Treatment

Treatment for CST involves:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Anticoagulants to prevent further clotting
• Possible surgical intervention in severe cases

External Links

• National Center for Biotechnology Information - Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis
• National Organization for Rare Disorders - Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis

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