Pneumocephalus due to meningitis extending from sphenoid sinusitis: Case report and review of literatures

Abstract

Pneumocephalus induced by meningitis extending from sphenoid sinusitis is rare. We describe the radiological and clinical characterisitics of pneumocephalus induced by meningitis in our case and previously reported cases. A 21‐year‐old man experienced headache and fever. Radiological examination revealed intracranial air and fluid collection in the sphenoid sinus. Examination of cerebrospinal fluid revealed increased neutrophils and decreased glucose, indicating meningitis. No bacteria were detected by culture. The intravenous administration of antibiotics improved his symptoms and radiological abnormalities. In this case, pneumocephalus was considered to have been induced by bacteria invading from the sphenoid sinus. The review of eight cases including ours revealed that good outcome may be expected in a cases for prompt treatment is performed. In patients with pneumocephalus and meningitis extending from sphenoid sinusitis, prompt treatment using antibiotics is necessary.

A Case of Atraumatic, Streptococcal Pneumocephalus: A Rare Complication of Influenza B Infection

“…In a 2019 case report by Barry et al, the patient developed pneumococcal meningitis with pneumocephalus in the setting of mastoiditis and sinusitis, but the pneumocephalus resolved after treatment with antibiotics [ 13 ]. In another case report, the patient was also treated with antibiotics against pneumococcal pneumocephalus in the background of sinusitis, although there was no laboratory evidence of Streptococcus pneumoniae [ 14 ]. Other case reports we reviewed were similar to the ones that have been discussed [ 15 , 16 ].…”