Isolated Sphenoid Sinusitis

Abstract

Isolated disease of sphenoid sinus is rare, representing 2-3% of all paranasal sinus lesions. Usually it is inflammatory in origin; very rarely it is due to neoplasm. Isolated sphenoid sinus diseases are difficult to diagnose and to treat because either the symptoms are very vague or they present to us very late as a result of disease complications. Here we are presenting a case of isolated sphenoid fungal sinusitis. A 40 year female came to our ENT outpatient department with complaints of intermittent headache for past 3 months. She was treated for similar complaints by a general practitioner with antibiotics and analgesics before three months. She was referred to an ophthalmologist and neurologist as the headache did not subside. Since there was no abnormality in ophthalmological examination, the neurologist suggested a MRI which showed opacification of the sphenoid sinus. Hence she was referred to an ENT specialist. ENT Clinical examination was normal. Urgent CT scan along with MRI was ordered which revealed complete opacification of the sphenoid sinus. There was no air fluid level, no hyper dense foci suggestive of fungal elements. There was no bony erosion. A provisional diagnosis of Chronic Sphenoid sinusitis was made and planned for endoscopic sphenoidotomy under general anesthesia. Sphenoid sinus was opened and fungal debri was seen inside, which was sent for culture. Sphenoid ostium was widened. Post operatively patient was completely relieved of headache. Patient was started on Tab.Itraconazole 200mg/day for 6 weeks, since the culture was suggestive of aspergillosis. Owing to the non specific presentation and the vague symptomology of the disease there may be considerable delay in diagnosing and treating the patient. Hence imaging studies like CT and MRI is necessary when the disease is suspected for prompt diagnosis.

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