Hyperostosis Cranialis Interna Presenting With Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak: A Case Report and Review of Literature

This report is of a case of hyperostosis cranialis internal (HCI), a rare disease characterized by the abnormal thickening of cranial bones, usually in the frontal and parietal regions. It is an uncommon disease that has clinical significance because of its possible symptoms: neurologic, aesthetic concerns, or asymptomatic, which may incidentally be found on imaging. Detailed attention has been given to the case of a 32-year-old female patient who presented with a two-year history of right clear, salty nasal discharge, anosmia, and band-like headache. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings helped in the diagnosis. The laboratory studies and treatment options have been described. A discussion on pathophysiology, differential diagnoses, and management is also done with the hope of adding to this limited literature on HCI. The implications for diagnosis and management in clinical practice are shown to be direct results of characterizing HCI as a unique bone disorder, whereby a better understanding of this condition is provided.