What condition is characterized by the spread of infection from the oral cavity to the cavernous sinus?

The condition characterized by the spread of infection from the oral cavity to the cavernous sinus is cavernous sinus thrombosis. This serious condition occurs when an infection, such as that from dental abscesses, spreads into the cavernous sinus, a large venous sinus located at the base of the skull.

When infection occurs in the area of the face and mouth, particularly from teeth or periodontal tissues, it can lead to the formation of clots within the cavernous sinus due to the inflammation and disruption of normal blood flow. Symptoms can include severe headache, fever, visual disturbances, and neurological deficits because of the close proximity of the cranial nerves and structures to the cavernous sinus itself.

This process can lead to significant and potentially life-threatening complications, hence the importance of recognizing and managing dental infections promptly to prevent their progression to regions like the cavernous sinus.