Clinical and radiological profile of cavernous sinus syndrome: a study from eastern part of India

Background Cavernous sinus syndrome (CSS) consists of a variable combination of involvement of the 3rd-to-6th cranial nerves. The etiologies vary across studies, and it has a significant impact on the outcome. This study was done to delineate the etiology, clinico-radiological profile and outcome of CSS. In this prospective study, patients were recruited consecutively over 2 years, and were followed up for at least 6 months. MRI of the brain and orbit with contrast was done, and other relevant investigations were performed to arrive at a specific etiology. Tolosa-Hunt Syndrome (THS) was defined in accordance with the second edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-II). Results Of the 92 patients studied, THS was the predominant diagnosis, followed by Tuberculosis, fungal infection, aneurysm, neoplastic and Sjögren’s syndrome. Cranial nerves commonly involved were 3rd, 4th, 6th and 5th. The optic nerve was affected in 54.3% of patients. The non-THS patients showed the greater occurrence of proptosis, complete ophthalmoplegia, involvement of optic nerve and cranial nerves 7 th –10th. Nasal blockage was present in fungal infection. MRI revealed more frequent involvement of orbit in non-THS cases. Bony erosions, ICA narrowing, intracranial extension and involvement of paranasal sinus were seen in fungal infection and neoplasm. THS patients improved with corticosteroid therapy, although, there was recurrence in 8 patients. Conclusions THS and tuberculosis were the most common cause of CSS. Clinical and radiological features were useful in distinguishing among the etiologies. Most of the patients responded to treatment, although, recurrence was seen in THS.