Marginal sinus arteriovenous fistulas mimicking carotid cavernous fistulas: diagnostic and therapeutic considerations

AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2007 Nov-Dec;28(10):1915-8. doi: 10.3174/ajnr.A0717. Epub 2007 Sep 26.

Abstract

Marginal sinus fistulas (MSFs) are uncommon vascular anomalies. Occasionally, the dominant venous drainage is forced retrograde up the inferior petrosal sinus and into the cavernous sinus, causing chemosis, proptosis, and ocular hypertension, mimicking a carotid cavernous fistula. This atypical clinical presentation may lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate hazardous treatment of an MSF. Identifying the site of the fistula and understanding the anatomy of the venous drainage are critical in providing appropriate, safe, and efficacious endovascular treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carotid-Cavernous Sinus Fistula / diagnosis*
  • Carotid-Cavernous Sinus Fistula / diagnostic imaging
  • Carotid-Cavernous Sinus Fistula / therapy
  • Cavernous Sinus / diagnostic imaging
  • Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations / diagnosis*
  • Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations / diagnostic imaging
  • Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Embolization, Therapeutic
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiography