Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea

Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea (CSF rhinorrhea) is a medical condition characterized by the leaking of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through the nose. This condition is usually caused by a fracture or a defect in the skull base or the paranasal sinuses.

Causes

CSF rhinorrhea can occur as a result of various causes. The most common cause is a head injury, which can lead to a fracture in the skull base. Other causes include neurosurgery, sinus surgery, tumors in the skull base or sinuses, and congenital defects.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of CSF rhinorrhea is a clear, watery discharge from the nose, particularly when the individual leans forward. Other symptoms can include headache, nasal congestion, hearing loss, and a metallic taste in the mouth.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of CSF rhinorrhea involves a detailed medical history and physical examination, as well as specific tests such as CT scan, MRI, and beta-2 transferrin test, which is highly specific for CSF.

Treatment

Treatment of CSF rhinorrhea depends on the cause and may include conservative therapy, surgery, or a combination of both. The goal of treatment is to stop the CSF leak and prevent complications such as meningitis.

See also

• Cerebrospinal fluid
• Skull base
• Paranasal sinuses
• Head injury
• Neurosurgery
• Sinus surgery
• Meningitis