The radiographic recognition of two clinically elusive mass lesions of the cavernous sinus: meningiomas and aneurysms

Abstract

Cavernous sinus syndromes secondary to chronic mass lesions, although a relatively rare cause of ophthalmoplegia, represent a distinct challenge in neuroradiologic diagnosis. Puzzling neuro-ophthalmologic signs and often subtle radiologic changes consistently lead to erroneous and delayed diagnoses as exemplified by a review of 20 patients; a correct clinical or radiographic diagnosis was initially not made in any individual.