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Decoding the Complexity: A Case Series on Isolated Sphenoid Sinus Fungal Ball

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Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Fungal rhinosinusitis accounts for a significant portion of paranasal sinus diseases, with fungus ball being the most frequently observed form, constituting 27% of cases. While commonly affecting the maxillary sinus, sphenoid sinus localization occurred in 24.78% of cases. Managing fungal balls in the sphenoid sinus poses challenges because of their proximity to critical structures, necessitating a careful and effective approach. A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients diagnosed with a paranasal sinus fungal ball, specifically isolated sphenoidal localization. Trans-nasal sphenoidotomy was performed, and the patients were followed up postoperatively for recurrence or residual disease. Among four identified cases, headache was the predominant symptom, and all patients underwent successful endoscopic surgery without complications. The follow-up revealed no recurrence or residual disease. Fungal ball in the sphenoid sinus, although uncommon, present diagnostic challenges with symptoms that often mimic other conditions. CT scans play a crucial role in diagnosis and reveal dense masses with characteristic features. Surgical intervention, particularly endoscopic sphenoidotomy, remains the primary and successful treatment, emphasizing the importance of early detection. This study emphasizes the effectiveness of endoscopic sphenoidotomy for managing isolated sphenoid sinus fungal ball. This also highlights the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent complications. Headache, a primary symptom, was successfully resolved after surgery, reinforcing the role of surgery as the primary treatment.

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Babu, A.R., Amulya, T.M., Sandhya, D. et al. Decoding the Complexity: A Case Series on Isolated Sphenoid Sinus Fungal Ball. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12070-024-04627-6

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