Lateral sinus thrombosis

The incidence of lateral sinus thrombophlebitis has been significantly reduced since the advent of antibiotics. This entity is rarely encountered in clinical practice, so a high index of suspicion is essential for early diagnosis and appropriate management. Although uncomplicated dural venous thrombosis carries an excellent prognosis with proper treatment, delay in diagnosis and institution of appropriate therapy may lead to serious, or even fatal, consequences. It is hoped that this case report and discussion will serve to increase the awareness of lateral sinus thrombophlebitis as a potential complication of suppurative otitis media.