Imaging of the Cavernous Sinus

Pathology of the cavernous sinus encompasses a broad and heterogeneous group of conditions that reflect the complex anatomy and critical neurovascular contents of this region. Accurate diagnosis relies on careful integration of clinical presentation with high-resolution imaging that delineates lesion location, extent, and behavior relative to the cavernous sinus walls, cranial nerves, and internal carotid artery. While many disease entities share overlapping imaging and clinical features, recognition of key distinguishing characteristics allows meaningful narrowing of the differential diagnosis and guides appropriate management strategies.