Septic cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis: a review of 35 cases

D Thatai1, L Chandy, K L Dhar

  • 1Department of Medicine, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana.

Insights

Septic cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis, often stemming from facial infections, carries a high mortality rate of over 34% despite antibiotic treatment. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen identified.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Septic cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis (CST) is a rare but life-threatening condition.
  • Facial infections are a common preceding cause of CST.
  • Staphylococcus aureus is frequently implicated in CST pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review cases of septic cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis.
  • To identify common causes and causative organisms.
  • To assess treatment outcomes and mortality rates.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 35 cases of septic cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis.
  • Analysis of patient data over a 5-year period.
  • Evaluation of infection sources, microbial agents, and treatment responses.

Main Results:

  • 80% of cases originated from infections in the medial third of the face.
  • Staphylococcus aureus was identified as the causative organism in over two-thirds of cases.
  • The overall mortality rate remained high at 34.3% despite appropriate antibiotic therapy.

Conclusions:

  • Facial infections, particularly in the medial third, are a significant risk factor for CST.
  • Staphylococcus aureus is the predominant pathogen.
  • Effective antibiotic therapy alone does not sufficiently reduce the high mortality associated with septic cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis.

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