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Free air in the cavernous sinus as an incidental finding
J C Horton1, P D Langer, G E Turner
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco 94143-0730.
Journal of Clinical Neuro-Ophthalmology
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Free air in the cavernous sinus was incidentally found on a CT scan, likely due to contrast injection. The air resolved on a follow-up scan, suggesting a transient, iatrogenic cause.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Neuroimaging
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- The cavernous sinus is a complex venous network at the skull base.
- Incidental findings on medical imaging require careful interpretation.
Observation:
- An incidental finding of free air within the cavernous sinus was observed on a computed tomographic (CT) scan.
- This air was noted immediately following contrast material injection for the CT scan.
Findings:
- The presence of free air in the cavernous sinus is a rare occurrence.
- The air bubbles were suspected to be introduced iatrogenically during contrast injection.
- A repeat CT scan 16 days later showed complete resolution of the air.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential, transient complication of contrast-enhanced CT scans.
- Understanding iatrogenic causes of air embolism is crucial for accurate radiological diagnosis.
- Further investigation may be warranted for similar incidental findings.