CSF Rhinorrhea

CSF rhinorrhea is leakage of cerebrospinal fluid through the nose due to a skull-base dural defect, usually post-traumatic/post-surgical or spontaneous. Clinical: clear watery unilateral nasal discharge, worse with leaning forward/Valsalva, with risk of meningitis. Treatment: conservative (head elevation, avoid straining) for small leaks; endoscopic endonasal surgical repair for persistent/recurrent leaks; prophylactic antibiotics.

Common Symptoms

Clear watery unilateral nasal discharge; worse leaning forward/Valsalva; history of trauma/surgery; meningitis risk

Causes and Pathogenesis

Skull-base dural defect allows CSF to drain into the nasal cavity, raising meningitis risk.

Treatment

Conservative; endoscopic endonasal repair if persistent; prophylactic antibiotics

Preventive Measures

Early repair; avoid straining; meningitis prevention.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurosurgery department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.