Work

Tension pneumocephalus related to nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A case report

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Tension pneumocephalus associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma is an exceptionally rare but potentially fatal condition. We report a case of tension pneumocephalus associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma treated by radiochemotherapy. Three-month follow-up computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) showed significant tumor regression but moderate intracranial pneumocephalus. Four days later, the patient was found in a comatose state and emergency brain CT showed extensive pneumocephalus with transtentorial descending and right temporal herniations. The patient died 5 days later. A summary of tension pneumocephalus is presented and the mechanism of fistula formation is discussed. This case enlightens tension pneumocephalus as a possible early complication of nasopharyngeal carcinoma treatment.

Source: Radiology Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2024.08.026

Authors: Mohammed Mehdi Ngadi, Patrice Jissendi Tchofo

Institution: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint-Pierre

Language: English

Topic: Head and Neck Surgical Oncology

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $550