Concomitant orbital and intracranial abscess: A rare complication of sinusitis

Abstract

Background:  Intracranial and orbital abscesses in combination together are rare complications of sinusitis. They can be life-threatening and can result in multiple sequelae.

Case presentation: A 9-year-old female presented with left periorbital swelling, gaze restriction and headache. Following scans, she underwent emergency endoscopic sinus surgery, evacuation of the intraorbital empyema and stereotactic mini-craniectomy with the evacuation of the extradural empyema as a joint case. The patient recovered well and was discharged to complete intravenous antibiotics for 6 weeks.

Conclusion: In the pediatric population intracranial complications of acute sinusitis can have more devastating consequences. Therefore prompt recognition and management are essential within a multidisciplinary team setting.

We also highlight the rarity of concomitant multi-site abscess formation and the need to be vigilant for same.