Cavernous sinus thrombosis (blood clot)

About Cavernous sinus thrombosis (blood clot)

A blood clot in the sinus. The cavernous sinus is one of the venous channels draining blood away from the brain. The carotid artery and cranial nerves pass through this sinus. The cavernous sinus is located at the base of the skull, behind the eyes. A blood clot in this sinus is called cavernous sinus thrombosis. The cause of cavernous sinus thrombosis is usually a bacterial infection that has spread from the sinuses, ears, eyes, nose, or skin of the face.

Symptoms

Loss of vision, paralysis of eye muscles, facial pain, double vision, a bulging eye, headache.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. An imaging study (CT or MRI) will be done to identify the blood clot.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, MRI.

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment includes: intravenous antibiotics and/or surgical drainage of infection.

Medical specialties

Neurosurgery · Pediatric Neurosurgery

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Cavernous sinus thrombosis (blood clot).