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[Subdural empyema as a complication of maxillary sinusitis (description of 3 cases)]
Abstract:
The authors report 3 cases of subdural empyema with different course and outcome. In all of them subdural empyema developed as a complication of chronic maxillary sinusitis. In the first case a coexistent brain abscess was the cause of death. In the second case operation carried out when the patient was in extremely severe condition failed to prevent death since the diagnosis had been made too late. Complete recovery was obtained in the third case owing to early clinical diagnosis confirmed with angiography, followed by early surgical treatment of the primary focus and early craniotomy. The importance of early diagnosis is stressed and the methods of surgical treatment are discussed.
Insights
Subdural empyema, a complication of chronic maxillary sinusitis, requires prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention. Early detection and treatment significantly improve patient outcomes, while delayed diagnosis can be fatal.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Subdural empyema (SE) is a serious intracranial infection.
- Chronic maxillary sinusitis can lead to SE.
- SE management requires timely intervention.
Observation:
- Three cases of SE secondary to chronic maxillary sinusitis are presented.
- Outcomes varied significantly based on diagnosis and treatment timing.
- Case 1: Fatal due to coexistent brain abscess.
- Case 2: Fatal due to delayed diagnosis and late intervention.
- Case 3: Complete recovery with early diagnosis and surgical management.
Findings:
- Early clinical diagnosis, confirmed by angiography, is crucial for successful SE treatment.
- Prompt surgical intervention for both the primary sinusitis focus and the empyema is vital.
- Delayed diagnosis and treatment are associated with poor prognoses and mortality.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical role of early diagnosis in managing subdural empyema.
- Emphasizes the need for prompt surgical intervention in SE cases.
- Underscores the link between chronic sinusitis and potentially life-threatening intracranial infections.