Wang HC, Hwang JC, Peng JP, Hsieh CH, Liliang PC. Tension pneumocephalus--a rare complication of radiotherapy: a case report.
J Emerg Med 2007;
31:387-9. [PMID:
17046479 DOI:
10.1016/j.jemermed.2006.04.013]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2005] [Revised: 08/22/2005] [Accepted: 04/11/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We present a rare case of tension pneumocephalus due to high-dose radiotherapy used to treat nasopharyngeal carcinoma. A skull base defect causing tension pneumocephalus was identified and was repaired successfully. The case emphasizes the importance of careful consideration before applying irradiation treatment to patients with head and neck malignancy and urges early detection of potentially life-threatening complications.
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