Presentation
Headache for last 2 years
Patient Data
Pneumatization of the right petrous apex is seen.
Case Discussion
Pneumatization of the petrous apex represents an anatomical variation that can manifest unilaterally or bilaterally. It is crucial to discern this normal variant from pathological lesions, particularly when examining MRI scans.
It is noteworthy that benign conditions, such as cholesterol granuloma and cholesteatoma, tend to occur more frequently in a pneumatized petrous apex. Moreover, this anatomical feature can become a potential site for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistulae, especially following skull base surgery. Therefore, proper differentiation and understanding of these aspects are essential in a clinical setting.