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MR features of pachymeningitis presenting with sixth-nerve palsy secondary to sphenoid sinusitis
W Nemzek1, G Postma, V Poirier
1Department of Radiology, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, USA.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|April 1, 1995
Abstract:
Pachymeningitis manifested by localized enhancing dural thickening adjacent to the clivus on MR images of two patients with sphenoid sinusitis and sixth-nerve palsy is presented. This is an unusual complication of sphenoid sinusitis. Prompt diagnosis and therapy may avoid significant intracranial complications.
Insights
Sphenoid sinusitis can cause pachymeningitis, a rare complication involving dural thickening near the clivus. Early detection and treatment of this sinusitis may prevent serious brain complications.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Sphenoid sinusitis is an infection of the sphenoid sinuses, air-filled cavities within the skull base.
- Complications of sinusitis can extend beyond the sinuses, affecting intracranial structures.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with localized enhancing dural thickening adjacent to the clivus on MR imaging.
- This dural thickening was associated with sphenoid sinusitis and sixth-nerve palsy.
Findings:
- The observed dural thickening represents pachymeningitis, an inflammation of the dura mater.
- This finding suggests an unusual intracranial complication directly linked to sphenoid sinusitis.
Implications:
- Prompt diagnosis of sphenoid sinusitis complicated by pachymeningitis is crucial.
- Timely therapeutic intervention may avert more severe neurological sequelae and intracranial complications.