Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  2019 Dec;62(12):731-734. 10.3342/kjorl-hns.2019.00402.

Oculomotor and Abducens Nerve Palsy Complicated by Cavernous Sinus Thrombophlebitis Resulting from Acute Sinusitis

• Kang JY
• Kim JJ
• Choi IJ
• Lee MC

• KMID: 2469959
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3342/kjorl-hns.2019.00402

Abstract

Cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis is a rare complication of paranasal sinusitis. The disease can result in a fatal outcome if not treated with proper antibiotics or surgical intervention. Recently, we experienced a case, in which a 58-year-old female presented with oculomotor and abducens nerve palsy resulting from the cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis complicated by paranasal sinusitis. CT and magnetic resonance imaging with contrast enhancement showed right unilateral pansinusitis, left maxillary, ethmoid and sphenoid sinusitis and bilateral cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis. These conditions were resolved by endoscopic sinus surgery, administration of broad spectrum antibiotics and steroid.

Keyword

Abducens nerve; Cavernous sinus; Oculomotor nerve; Sinusitis; Thrombophlebitis

MeSH Terms

Abducens Nerve Diseases*
Abducens Nerve*
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis*
Cavernous Sinus*
Fatal Outcome
Female
Humans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Middle Aged
Oculomotor Nerve
Sinusitis*
Sphenoid Sinus
Sphenoid Sinusitis
Thrombophlebitis
Anti-Bacterial Agents