Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea (brain fluid from the nose)

About Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea (brain fluid from the nose)

Cerebrospinal fluid that leaks out the nose. A basal skull fracture is the most common cause.

Symptoms

Headache, vomiting, bruising around the eyes (raccoon eyes), bruising behind the ears (Battle's sign).

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan or MRI will be done to identify the cause of the cerebrospinal fluid leakage.

Common tests: CT Scan, MRI.

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment includes: treatment of co-existing injuries, and occasionally prophylactic antibiotics.

Medical specialties

Neurosurgery · Pediatric Neurosurgery

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea (brain fluid from the nose).