A Case of Pneumocephalus on Valsalva Maneuver: A Case Report and Literature Review.
Bouchra Chergui, Julien Flament, Nicolas Mulquin et al.
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Case in brief
A 45-year-old woman presented with a sudden occipital headache after performing a Valsalva maneuver, without any recent trauma or surgery. Neurological examinations were normal, and brain CT revealed a small, isolated pneumocephalus in the posterior fossa, with no anatomical defects found. The patient was treated conservatively, and her symptoms resolved with follow-up imaging showing spontaneous resorption of the air.
What made this case unusual
The case illustrates spontaneous pneumocephalus occurring without prior trauma or surgical intervention, triggered by a Valsalva maneuver.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider pneumocephalus in patients with atypical headaches, especially following activities that increase intracranial pressure, such as the Valsalva maneuver.
Why it matters
Recognizing pneumocephalus can prevent unnecessary interventions and guide appropriate management in emergency settings.