Which of the following is a sign of a basilar skull fracture?

A sign of a basilar skull fracture is the presence of raccoon eyes, which refer to periorbital ecchymosis or bruising around the eyes. This particular manifestation occurs due to the bleeding that collects in the soft tissue surrounding the eyes, often resulting from traumatic injury to the head in the region where the skull base is fractured.

Raccoon eyes typically indicate the likelihood of significant injury, specifically to the area of the skull where the frontal bone meets the orbits. The implication of this sign suggests that a serious condition may be present, necessitating thorough examination and immediate imaging studies to assess the extent of the injury.

Other signs or symptoms that may accompany a basilar skull fracture can include cerebrospinal fluid leakage from the nose or ears, but the notable presence of raccoon eyes specifically supports the diagnosis of a fracture at the base of the skull. Understanding this sign can be crucial for immediate assessment and management strategies in emergency situations involving head trauma.