Related Experiment Videos
Cavernous sinus apoplexy presenting isolated sixth cranial nerve palsy: case report
Matteo Zoli1, Diego Mazzatenta, Ernesto Pasquini
1Center of Surgery for Pituitary Tumours, Department of Neurosurgery, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy. matteozeta@libero.it
Pituitary
|April 20, 2011
Summary
Apoplexy of a pituitary adenoma in the cavernous sinus caused isolated cranial nerve VI palsy. Surgical removal led to prompt recovery, highlighting this rare presentation.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Pituitary adenomas can rarely present with apoplexy, a sudden hemorrhage or infarction.
- Cavernous sinus involvement by pituitary adenomas is uncommon, and apoplexy within this location is exceedingly rare.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old female presented with sudden onset of isolated cranial nerve VI palsy and severe headache.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a pituitary adenoma within the left cavernous sinus.
- Endoscopic endonasal surgery successfully removed the ischemic adenoma from the cavernous sinus.
Findings:
- The patient experienced rapid resolution of neurological symptoms, including the abducens nerve palsy.
- Post-operative MRI confirmed complete tumor removal, with no evidence of pituitary insufficiency.
- Literature review confirmed the rarity of pituitary adenoma apoplexy exclusively within the cavernous sinus.
Implications:
- This case highlights a unique presentation of pituitary adenoma apoplexy, characterized by isolated abducens nerve palsy and lack of endocrine dysfunction.
- The vulnerability of the abducens nerve within the cavernous sinus may explain the isolated palsy.
- Endoscopic endonasal surgery offers an effective treatment for pituitary adenomas located in the cavernous sinus, even in cases of apoplexy.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Cranial Nerves: Types Part I
Cranial nerves are responsible for transmitting motor and sensory information between the brain and various parts of the body. There are twelve pairs of cranial nerves, with the first six being essential in sensory perception, motor control, and autonomic functions related to the head and neck.
Olfactory Nerve (Cranial Nerve I)
The olfactory nerve, or cranial nerve I, is unique as it is purely sensory and dedicated to the sense of smell. This nerve originates in the olfactory epithelium of the...
Olfactory Nerve (Cranial Nerve I)
The olfactory nerve, or cranial nerve I, is unique as it is purely sensory and dedicated to the sense of smell. This nerve originates in the olfactory epithelium of the...
01:26Arteries of the Head and Neck
The human body's intricate network of arteries ensures that every organ system receives the necessary oxygen and nutrients for optimal function. The arterial network in the head and neck region is particularly complex, providing vital blood flow to the brain, eyes, and other critical structures. Prominent arteries in this region include the internal carotid arteries and the vertebral arteries.
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
01:19Cranial Nerves: Overview and Anatomy
The cranial nerves are an important part of the complex network of nerves in the human body. These nerves emerge directly from the brain and are responsible for transmitting essential information between the brain and various parts of the head and neck. There are 12 pairs of cranial nerves, systematically numbered using Roman numerals from I to XII, beginning from the anterior and moving to the posterior of the brain. Each cranial nerve is uniquely identified by names that reflect its function...