Mount Fuji sign

Last revised by Mohammad Sattouf on 28 Jun 2024

Mount Fuji sign is seen on cross-sectional imaging and is indicative of a tension pneumocephalus

The sign refers to the presence of gas (pneumocephalus) between the tips of the frontal lobes with a heaped-up appearance giving the silhouette-like appearance of Mount Fuji 1-3. It suggests that the pressure of the gas is at least greater than that of the surface tension of cerebrospinal fluid between the frontal lobes 1-3.  The sign is caused by cortical veins tethering the frontal lobes, resulting in their striking appearance 5

The appearance of this sign often warrants immediate surgery to prevent permanent neurological damage. However, conservative management in patients with no signs of raised intracranial pressure has also been described 4.

See also

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