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Study of ethmoid sinus involvement in multibacillary leprosy.
S Srinivasan1, V I Nehru, S B Mann
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|April 10, 1999
Summary
Leprosy commonly affects the nasal mucosa and can spread to paranasal sinuses, acting as a reinfection source. This study found significant ethmoid sinus involvement in multi-bacillary leprosy patients using CT scans and endoscopy.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Nasal mucosal involvement is a hallmark of lepromatous leprosy.
- Paranasal sinus involvement in leprosy is an emerging area of interest.
- Sinus involvement may act as a reservoir for nasal mucosal reinfection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and patterns of paranasal sinus involvement in untreated multi-bacillary leprosy patients.
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of computed tomography (CT) scans, ethmoid sinus endoscopy, and biopsy.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 25 untreated multi-bacillary leprosy patients.
- Clinical examination, CT scan of paranasal sinuses, ethmoid sinus endoscopy, and biopsy were performed.
- Data analysis focused on identifying sinus abnormalities and correlating diagnostic methods.
Main Results:
- Ethmoid sinus involvement was detected in 20 patients (80%) via CT scan, with bilateral and anterior ethmoid involvement being most common.
- Abnormal mucosa was observed in 17 patients (68%) during ethmoid sinus endoscopy.
- Biopsy confirmed ethmoid sinus involvement in 16 patients (64%).
- A statistically significant correlation was found between CT scan, endoscopy, and biopsy findings.
Conclusions:
- The paranasal sinuses, particularly the ethmoid sinuses, are frequently involved in multi-bacillary leprosy.
- CT scan, endoscopy, and biopsy are reliable methods for diagnosing sinus involvement in leprosy.
- Understanding sinus involvement is crucial for managing leprosy and preventing reinfection.