Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026
08:59
A Model for Perineural Invasion in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: January 5, 2017
Cavernous sinus involvement in head and neck cancer
J M Bumpous1, M D Maves, S M Gomez
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, St. Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri 63110-0250.
Head & Neck
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Intracranial spread in head and neck cancers, specifically to the cavernous sinus, presents a rare but serious syndrome. Early diagnosis and palliative care are crucial for improving outcomes in affected patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Intracranial spread is an uncommon late-stage manifestation of head and neck cancers.
- Cavernous sinus involvement represents a distinct clinical syndrome with significant morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on a distinct clinical syndrome caused by cavernous sinus involvement in head and neck cancer patients.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges and implications of this rare manifestation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case review of six patients with head and neck cancer and cavernous sinus involvement.
- Clinical assessment and review of diagnostic imaging modalities.
Main Results:
- Cavernous sinus syndrome in this cohort was associated with a poor prognosis, with a mean survival of 4 months.
- Diagnosis can be elusive but is becoming more frequent, possibly due to improved imaging or treatment alterations.
Conclusions:
- Cavernous sinus involvement can be the initial sign of distant metastasis in head and neck cancer.
- Despite poor survival, palliative care is beneficial.
- Increased awareness of this syndrome can facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment modification.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Arteries of the Head and Neck
The human body's intricate network of arteries ensures that every organ system receives the necessary oxygen and nutrients for optimal function. The arterial network in the head and neck region is particularly complex, providing vital blood flow to the brain, eyes, and other critical structures. Prominent arteries in this region include the internal carotid arteries and the vertebral arteries.
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
01:19Veins of Head and Neck
The blood drainage from the head and neck is primarily managed by three pairs of veins: the external jugular, internal jugular, and vertebral veins. The external jugular veins drain superficial scalp and face structures, passing over the sternocleidomastoid muscles to empty into the subclavian veins.
On the other hand, the vertebral veins, unlike their arterial counterparts, are not primarily responsible for brain drainage. Instead, they drain the cervical vertebrae, spinal cord, and some small...
On the other hand, the vertebral veins, unlike their arterial counterparts, are not primarily responsible for brain drainage. Instead, they drain the cervical vertebrae, spinal cord, and some small...
01:27Cryptococcal Meningitis
Cryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening opportunistic infection predominantly associated with HIV/AIDS, accounting for over 100,000 deaths annually worldwide. However, it also affects individuals with other forms of immunosuppression, including those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, organ transplant recipients, patients with innate immunodeficiencies, and individuals with hematological disorders. The infection is caused mainly by Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii,...
01:14Increased Intracranial Pressure l: Introduction
Intracranial hypertension is a sustained elevation of intracranial pressure (ICP) above 22 mm Hg. In supine adults, normal ICP is ~7–15 mm Hg.The rigid, nonexpandable cranium contains three components—brain tissue, blood, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)—that total ~1,700 mL in a typical adult: 1,400 mL brain (~80%), 150 mL blood (~10%), and 150 mL CSF (~10%). According to the Monro–Kellie doctrine, total intracranial volume is effectively fixed. When one component expands, CSF and venous blood...