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Intractable headache: aseptic meningitis and sphenoidal sinusitis
1Temple University School of Medicine, Germantown Hospital and Medical Center, Philadelphia.
Cephalalgia : an International Journal of Headache
|October 1, 1994
Abstract:
Sphenoid sinusitis, an uncommon cause of headache, is associated with significant morbidity. A 30-year-old man presented with a progressive intractable headache and aseptic meningitis. Failure to recognize sphenoid disease on brain CT delayed diagnosis; treatment with i.v. antibiotics resolved the disorder.
Insights
Sphenoid sinusitis, though rare, can cause severe headaches and aseptic meningitis. Prompt diagnosis and intravenous antibiotic treatment are crucial for resolving this serious sinus infection.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Sphenoid sinusitis is an uncommon but serious condition.
- It can present with severe, intractable headaches.
- Associated morbidity can be significant if undiagnosed.
Observation:
- A 30-year-old male presented with progressive intractable headache.
- The patient also exhibited symptoms of aseptic meningitis.
- Initial brain CT scans failed to identify the sphenoid sinus disease.
Findings:
- Delayed diagnosis due to misinterpretation of imaging.
- The underlying cause was identified as sphenoid sinusitis.
- Intravenous antibiotic therapy led to complete resolution of symptoms.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering sphenoid sinusitis in headache differential diagnoses.
- Emphasizes the need for thorough evaluation of the sphenoid sinuses in complex headache cases.
- Underscores the effectiveness of timely antibiotic treatment for sphenoid sinusitis-induced meningitis.