Septic thrombosis of the cavernous sinuses

Abstract

Septic thrombosis of the cavernous sinuses (or cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis [CST]) is a dramatic and potentially lethal illness, which is still occasionally seen by clinicians. Before the availability of antimicrobial agents, mortality from CST was near 100%, but it markedly decreased to approximately 20% to 30% during the antibiotic era. Nevertheless, the threat of death and serious morbidity continues to necessitate early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of CST to minimize risks to the patient. Accordingly, we reviewed the salient clinical features of this illness, with emphasis on newer aspects of diagnosis and treatment.