Spontaneous temporal cerebrospinal fluid leak

Abstract

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leaks of the temporal bone are uncommon conditions, but with increasing incidence in the last years. They represent the osteodural defect of the middle and posterior fossae floor with consequent communication between the subarachnoid space and the middle ear and mastoid cells, not associated with a history of trauma, chronic infections, tumors, surgery or irradiation. Physiopathogenesis is not well defined, being associated with the faulty development of the temporal bone and/or the presence of aberrant arachnoid granulations, in addition to being favored by idiopathic intracranial hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea and obesity. It has the potential for serious neurological complications, which is why surgical treatment is recommended. The main approaches involve transmastoid access and craniotomy access through the middle fossa, or a combination of both. This paper reports on a case attended at Grupo Santa Casa BH and performs a literature review and on aspects related to the clinical presentation and management of the condition.