Simple pneumocephalus most frequently arises as a complication of a head in
jury in which a compound basal skull fracture with tearing of the meninges
allows entry of air into the cranial cavity. It can also follow a neurosurg
ical operation. Tension traumatic pneumocephalus with intraventricular exte
nsion is an extremely rare, potentially lethal condition that requires prom
pt diagnosis and treatment. We report the case of subdural and intraventric
ular accidental tension pneumocephalus occurring in a 26-year-old man as a
result of skull fracture. This case is combined with rhinorrhea and meningi
tis that suggest some difficulties to treat. The operative procedure associ
ated with medical treatment was performed and a good result was obtained.