Lateral sinus thrombosis: a sometimes unexpected diagnosis

The Laryngoscope
|June 1, 1985
PubMed

Insights

Lateral sinus thrombosis, a rare complication of ear infections, can cause septic pulmonary emboli even without obvious symptoms. Suspect this condition in patients with fever, chills, and neck pain.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Lateral sinus thrombosis was historically common with ear infections but is now rare.
  • Modern cases typically involve patients with a history of chronic ear infections.

Observation:

  • Two cases presented with septic pulmonary emboli originating from occult lateral sinus thrombosis.
  • These patients lacked a clear history of chronic ear infection.

Findings:

  • Septic pulmonary emboli can be the primary manifestation of inapparent lateral sinus thrombosis.
  • Clinical signs like fever, chills, and neck pain warrant suspicion for lateral sinus thrombosis.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider lateral sinus thrombosis in patients with unexplained septic pulmonary emboli.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications.
  • This highlights the importance of vigilance for rare but serious complications of ear infections.

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