Petrous Apex Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Leak: A Review Article

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to present a review article about petrous apex cere-brospinal fluid (CSF) leak.
Data Sources: Published English-language literatures in PubMed and Google Scholar.
Review Methods: PubMed and Google Scholar were systematically searched using search terms: petrous, apex, cerebrospinal and leak. Temporal, bone, cerebrospinal and leak.
Study Selection: We included studies about petrous apex CSF Leak.
Results: Seventeen studies were included in this study. The results showed that 72% of patients are adult and 28%of patients are children. Meningocele is the most common cause of petrous apex CSF leak in pediatric patients, while iatrogenic trauma is the most common cause in adult patients. Seventy-seven percentage of pediatric patients have active leak, while 96% of adult patients have active leak. Nose is the most common site of CSF leak in both adult and pediatric patients. Sixty-six percentage of pediatric patients have meningitis while only 20% of adults have meningitis. Most cases need surgical procedure. Eleven percentage of pediatric patients have a recurrence, while 20% of adult patients have a recurrence.
Conclusion: Petrous apex is a rare location for CSF leak.