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Subdural empyema and other suppurative complications of paranasal sinusitis

Melissa K Osborn1, James P Steinberg

  • 1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA. mkosbor@emory.edu

The Lancet. Infectious Diseases
|December 22, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Suppurative intracranial infections are rare but serious complications of paranasal sinusitis. Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial, as exemplified by a case of delayed subdural empyema diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Neurosurgery
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Paranasal sinusitis can lead to uncommon but severe suppurative intracranial infections.
  • These include meningitis, intracranial abscess, subdural empyema, epidural abscess, and dural sinus thrombosis.
  • A high index of suspicion is essential for early detection.

Observation:

  • A case of subdural empyema is presented, highlighting a diagnostic delay.
  • The patient's condition demonstrated the rapid progression characteristic of this neurosurgical emergency.

Findings:

  • Suppurative intracranial infections are serious sequelae of paranasal sinusitis.
  • Subdural empyema, in particular, progresses rapidly and requires urgent intervention.

Implications:

  • Emphasizes the need for vigilance in diagnosing intracranial complications of sinusitis.
  • Highlights subdural empyema as a neurosurgical emergency demanding prompt diagnosis and treatment.
  • Underscores the importance of timely management to prevent severe neurological outcomes.

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