Bilateral cavernous sinus thrombosis complicating acute unilateral pansinusitis in a 15-year-old boy

Abstract

Cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) is a rare and potentially fatal complication of acute sinusitis. Timely diagnosis and management is, therefore, essential in preventing death and neurological disability. Here, we describe the case of a paediatric patient with bilateral CST secondary to acute unilateral pansinusitis that presented with rapidly progressing bilateral periorbital oedema. Initial imaging was negative. This case serves to emphasise the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion when managing paediatric patients with suspected CST with persistent symptoms. Expeditious investigation and management of our patient in this case resulted in a positive outcome, with resolution of symptoms and no residual neurological deficit.

Keywords: ear; nose and throat/otolaryngology; radiology; venous thromboembolism.