What is a cavernous sinus thrombosis?

Blood clot: Cavernous sinus thrombosis is when a blood clot is in the cavernous sinus [which is a cavity at the base of the brain a vein, nerves and other structures]. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection that has spread and can be treated with antibiotics.

Clot: In type of vein in head. Can cause venous stroke or bleed. Treated with anticoagulation. In severe cases can remove clot or dissolve clot with a catheter.

Clotting in a vein: This is a situation where a large series of veins at the base of the skull, just behind the eyes clot off and block blood flow out of the brain. This can lead to a stroke, prominent eye(x) and it is a serious condition.

CST: Cavernous sinus thrombosis is the formation of blood clot within the cavernous sinus, a cavity at the base of the brain which drains deoxygenated blood from the brain back to the heart. The cause is usually from a spreading infection in the nose, sinuses, ears, or teeth. Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus are often the associated bacteria.