Fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus do not necessarily require an external approach for eradication of disease. We report 6 cases of fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus seen at UCLA Medical Center from 1980-1999, 4 of which were successfully treated with endoscopic intranasal sphenoidotomy and the other 2 through either a transseptal or transantral approach.

STUDY DESIGN AND

METHODS

Case series. The medical records of 6 patients with fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus treated at UCLA Medical Center over a 20-year period (1980-1999) were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Six patients diagnosed with fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus were seen at UCLA Medical Center from 1980-1999. Endoscopic intranasal sphenoid sinusotomy was performed on 4 patients and a transseptal or transantral approach to the sphenoid sinus was used on the remaining 2 patients. No evidence of recurrent disease has been seen after up to 15 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

When diagnosed early, functional endoscopic intranasal sphenoidotomy represents an effective mode of treatment for patients with fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus, obviating the need for more aggressive surgical approaches.