[Carotid-cavernous sinus fistula: an unusual cause of exophthalmia. Report of three cases].
BACKGROUND
Exophthalmia can be associated with several disorders. Although unusual, a carotid-cavernous fistula should be ruled out systematically as it may be associated with severe complications.


METHODS
We report three cases associated with both types of carotid-cavernous fistula that highlight the clinical presentation and diagnostic process.


CONCLUSIONS
A carotid-cavernous fistula should be systematically ruled out in patients with a uni- or bilateral exophthalmia. Careful examination with auscultation of the ocular globe contributes greatly to the diagnosis that may be confirmed by MRI or arteriography.
Service de médecine interne, centre hospitalo-universitaire, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Conception, 13385 Marseille, France.
A
A
Grados
F
F
Matonti
G
G
Maalouly
M
M
Lipski
R
R
Nemnoum-Raad
E
E
Jean
E
E
Bernit
M
M
Ebbo
S
S
Marciano
C
C
Chagnaud
J-R
JR
Harle
H
H
Brunel
A
A
Kettaneh
N
N
Schleinitz
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001164:Arteriovenous Fistula / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D002339:Carotid Arteries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D020216:Carotid-Cavernous Sinus Fistula / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D002426:Cavernous Sinus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005094:Exophthalmos / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography