Cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis caused by a dental infection: A case report

Chantal Ngoune

doi:10.31579/2690-4861/126

Abstract

Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) is a rare, life-threatening complication of infections of any of the tissues drained by the cavernous sinus such as the mid-face, orbit and sinuses. With the introduction of antibiotics, the mortality and morbidity rates have significantly reduced although they remain high. The necessity of an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment is therefore of great importance. Clinical presentation includes proptosis, chemosis, ocular motor nerve palsy, and sensitive disorders. Imaging investigations, such as contrast enhanced computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have had a significant impact on the diagnosis. This condition is rare and after literature review, we found very few case series and some cases reports. We herein share a case of cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis caused by a dental infection.

Highlights

Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) is a rare, life-threatening complication of infections of any of the tissues drained by the cavernous sinus such as the mid-face, orbit and sinuses
We share a case of cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis caused by a dental infection
Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) is a rare, life-threatening complication of infections of any of the tissues drained by the cavernous sinus such as the mid-face, orbit and sinuses [1]

Summary

Introduction

Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) is a rare, life-threatening complication of infections of any of the tissues drained by the cavernous sinus such as the mid-face, orbit and sinuses [1]. Chemosis, ocular motor nerve palsy, and sensitive disorders Imaging investigations, such as contrast enhanced computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have had a significant impact on the diagnosis [3]. A 67 years old woman, referred by the dentist for the management left ptosis associated with dental cellulitis Her history revealed the presence of headache, fever and painful swelling of the left maxilla a week prior to the sudden onset of left ptosis. The patient was treated with systemic antibiotics; Cefuroxime, 1 g per day and Metronidazole, 1.5 g per day for 21 days.

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Conclusion