Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid Rhinorrhea

Abstract

The diagnosis of CSF rhinorrhea requires the performance of a thorough history and physical examination. Often no objective findings can be found and further evaluation will be required. In our experience, metrizamide CT cisternography yields the most information for localization of the fistula. When indicated, patients can be protected against meningitis by using prophylactic antibiotics for 4-6 weeks to allow a fistula to close spontaneously. If the fistula fails to close during this time, surgical closure with dural or muscle graft with or without waxing of the bone is the treatment of choice.