A patient presents with clear, watery unilateral nasal discharge following head trauma. The fluid tests positive for beta-2 transferrin. What is the most common site of CSF leak in traumatic cases?

• A Frontal sinus posterior wall
• B Ethmoid roof (fovea ethmoidalis)
• C Sphenoid sinus
• D Cribriform plate ✓

Explanation

Beta-2 transferrin is the gold standard for confirming CSF rhinorrhea. In traumatic cases, the cribriform plate is the most common site of CSF leak due to its thin bone and the firm attachment of the dura, which tears with shearing forces. The ethmoid roof and sphenoid sinus are other sites but less common in trauma. Most traumatic CSF leaks resolve with conservative management; persistent leaks require endoscopic repair.

Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 28th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.