Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea is a condition in which there is a perforation of the skull base that results in communication between the subarachnoid space and surrounding extracranial spaces leading to leakage of CSF. Common sites of the defect include the frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses as well as the cribriform plate. Symptoms unique to the presence of CSF rhinorrhea include clear, colorless, usually unilateral nasal discharge. Other presenting symptoms are due to the underlying etiology.
Approximately 80% of the cases of CSF rhinorrhea occur following nonsurgical trauma. Iatrogenic and nontraumatic causes are less common. Regardless of the etiology of CSF rhinorrhea, the drainage may resolve with conservative management. Surgery has also proven to be an effective method of treatment with endoscopic repair having an initial success rate between 85 and 95%.
Prof. Jean Anderson Eloy is giving "Treatment of Cerebrospinal Fluid Rhinorrhea" lecture, do not miss!
