Symptomatic pneumocephalus occurring years after transphenoidal surgery and radiation therapy for an invasive pituitary tumor: a case report and review of the literature.

We present the unusual case of a patient who experienced a CSF leak and subsequent pneumocephalus several years after transphenoidal surgery and radiation treatment for an ACTH secreting pituitary tumor. This patient underwent aggressive management including placement of a lumbar drain, and reoperation to stop her leak. Despite these efforts, her leak persisted resulting in significant tension pneumocephalus. Pneumocephalus is a rare but important potential complication of transphenoidal surgery. Here we discuss our management of this patient's condition, and review the existing literature.