Syndrome of cavernous sinus aneurysm (dilation)

Head | Neurology | Syndrome of cavernous sinus aneurysm (dilation) (Disease)


Description

The cavernous sinus is a small blood-filled space on either side of the base of the skull located behind the eyes.

Cavernous sinus symptoms include: decrease or loss of vision, chemosis, exophthalmos (bulging eyes), headaches, and paralysis of the cranial nerves which course through the cavernous sinus.

Causes and Risk factors

Carotid-cavernous aneurysms do not involve a major risk of subarachnoid hemorrhage. However, their rupture can result in direct C-C fistulas, which may lead to cerebral hemorrhage. These aneurysms, which are more frequent in the elderly population, present with an indolent ophthalmoplegia. Although some patients suffer minor disability and do not require treatment, endovascular occlusion of these lesions is often successful and may be attempted in selected patients.

Diagnosis and Treatment

As MRI and/or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) are often specific, cerebral angiography generally is not required to make a diagnosis.

Cavernous sinus aneurysms are treated by endovascular balloon occlusion. ...