Medical management of a cavum septi pellucidi et vergae abscess in an adult: Case report and review of the literature

•Case report and literature review of rare cavum septi pellucidi abscesses.•Case presentation of cavum septi pellucidi abscess treated with antibiotics.•Review of cavum septi pellucidi abscess management strategies.•Recommendation of initial trial of medical management in stable patients. Abscesses of the cavum septi pellucidi (CSP) or cavum septi pellucidi et vergae (CSPV) are exceedingly rare with only ten cases previously reported. As so few cases have been published, there is no consensus on optimal management strategies with some recommending operative drainage and some suggesting more conservative approaches. In this study we present the first reported case of a 51-year-old male presenting with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion and abscess of the CSPV secondary to otomastoiditis, treated successfully with intravenous antibiotics. A comprehensive review of the literature on CSP and CSPV abscesses was conducted with a focus on management strategies. We conclude, clinical condition permitting, that medical treatment should be the initial strategy selected for the management of CSP and CSPV abscesses.