Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis: Understanding Diagnosis & Causes

Cavernous sinus thrombosis is a condition characterized by the formation of a blood clot in the vein that runs through the cavernous sinus at the base of the brain. Diagnosis of this condition may involve computed tomography (CT) scanning.

Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis

• Typically, cavernous sinus thrombosis results from a bacterial infection of the sinuses that originates in the nose, eyes, ears, teeth or facial skin, according to Medline Plus. It may also occur in individuals with additional medical conditions that increase blood risks.

CT Scan

• During CT scanning, doctors take a series of X-rays that are then coordinated with a computer to provide accurate imaging of a given area of the body, according to the Radiological Society of North America.

CT Diagnosis

• In order to diagnose cavernous sinus thrombosis, doctors may order a CT scan of the head to reveal its characteristic effects, notes Medline Plus.

Considerations

• The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library (MMOML) notes that while CT scans do provide a benefit in diagnosing cavernous sinus thrombosis, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans typically provide more helpful results.

Additional Considerations

• The MMOML also notes that doctors frequently misdiagnose cavernous sinus thrombosis, which resembles the ailment called orbital cellulitis.