Metastasis to the skull base involving the sphenoid and cavernous sinus in hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignancy of the liver, among which around 18-64% metastasize, most frequently to lungs, regional lymph nodes and adrenal glands. Metastasis of HCC to the central nervous system represents a rare yet clinically significant phenomenon, often presenting diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. In this case report, we document a 35-year-old male who presented with a secondary headache and right ophthalmoplegia attributable to metastatic deposits secondary to HCC infiltrating the cavernous sinus and superior orbital fissure. Despite therapeutic interventions including local palliative radiotherapy and sorafenib, the patient succumbed to acute liver failure after 9 months. This case highlights the aggressive potential of HCC to involve the central nervous system and the importance of heightened clinical suspicion for early diagnosis and intervention in such rare but clinically impactful scenarios.

Keywords: case report; cavernous sinus syndrome; hepatocellular carcinoma; ophthalmoplegia.