Systematic review and case report: Intracranial complications of pediatric sinusitis

Neha A Patel1, David Garber2, Shirley Hu2

  • 1New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.

Insights

Intracranial complications of rhinosinusitis, though rare, require prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment. This systematic review highlights common presentations and effective management strategies for improved patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Otolaryngology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Intracranial complications of rhinosinusitis are uncommon but serious conditions.
  • Prompt recognition and management are critical due to potentially severe outcomes.

Observation:

  • This systematic review analyzed 16 studies involving 180 patients, primarily young males.
  • Subdural empyema, epidural abscess, and cerebral abscess were the most frequent complications.

Findings:

  • Patients commonly presented with nonspecific symptoms like headache and fever.
  • Diagnosis was confirmed using advanced imaging (CT/MRI), and treatment involved surgical drainage and prolonged antibiotics.
  • The study reported a 27% morbidity rate and a 3.3% mortality rate.

Implications:

  • Despite the rarity, a high index of suspicion and multidisciplinary approach are key to favorable outcomes.
  • Further research is needed to clarify optimal surgical interventions for these complex cases.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Cranial Bones: Lateral View01:27

Cranial Bones: Lateral View

The lateral view of the cranium is dominated by temporal, sphenoid, and ethmoid bones.
The temporal bone forms the lower lateral side of the skull. The temporal bone is subdivided into several regions. The flattened upper portion is the squamous portion of the temporal bone. Below this area and projecting anteriorly is the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, which forms the posterior portion of the zygomatic arch. Posteriorly is the mastoid portion of the temporal bone. Projecting...
7.8K
Veins of Head and Neck01:19

Veins of Head and Neck

The blood drainage from the head and neck is primarily managed by three pairs of veins: the external jugular, internal jugular, and vertebral veins. The external jugular veins drain superficial scalp and face structures, passing over the sternocleidomastoid muscles to empty into the subclavian veins.
On the other hand, the vertebral veins, unlike their arterial counterparts, are not primarily responsible for brain drainage. Instead, they drain the cervical vertebrae, spinal cord, and some small...
6.7K
Epistaxis01:30

Epistaxis

Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, occurs when small, swollen blood vessels in the nasal mucous membrane rupture. Typically, the anterior septum is the primary site of occurrence.
Etiology
Possible causes of this condition include high blood pressure, trauma, low humidity, upper respiratory tract infections, allergies, foreign bodies, nasal inhalation of corticosteroids or illicit drugs, excessive use of decongestant nasal sprays, facial or nasal surgery, anatomic malformation, tumors, or systemic...
699
Tonsillitis I: Introduction01:30

Tonsillitis I: Introduction

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, which are two lymphoid tissue masses at the back of the throat. This condition can cause discomfort and irritation in the throat.
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
3.0K
Cranial and Spinal Meninges01:19

Cranial and Spinal Meninges

The cranial and spinal meninges are complex protective structures surrounding the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord. These meninges consist of the dura mater, the arachnoid mater, and the pia mater. They protect the CNS, provide structural support, and aid in circulating cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Cranial Meninges
These meningeal layers cover the cranium. The dura mater is the outermost layer of cranial meninges. It is a thick and durable membrane of dense...
4.7K
Viral Meningitis01:18

Viral Meningitis

Viral meningitis is the most common form of meningitis and is often referred to as aseptic meningitis to indicate the absence of bacterial involvement. It is generally milder than bacterial meningitis, with symptoms including fever, headache, stiff neck, drowsiness, nausea, photophobia, and vomiting. Rarely, more severe manifestations or death may occur. Common causative agents include enteroviruses, particularly coxsackie A and B viruses and echoviruses, all members of the Enterovirus genus...
2