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Is sphenoid sinus opacity significant in patients with optic neuritis?
C M Moorman1, P Anslow, J S Elston
1Department of Ophthalmology and Neuroradiology, Radcliffe Infirmary, Oxford, UK.
Eye (London, England)
|July 9, 1999
Summary
Sphenoid sinusitis can cause optic neuritis, leading to vision loss. Prompt diagnosis and endoscopic sinus drainage are crucial for reversible vision recovery in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Neurology
Background:
- Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve.
- Sinus disease is a rare cause of optic neuritis.
Observation:
- 11 patients with optic neuritis and sphenoid sinus opacity were identified.
- Symptoms included atypical headache and visual dysfunction.
Findings:
- Sinus contents varied, including fungal infection and mucopurulent material.
- Vision loss was reversible in 6 patients after treatment.
- Chronic osteomyelitis caused irreversible optic atrophy in one patient.
Implications:
- Sphenoid sinusitis is a treatable cause of optic neuritis.
- Patients with isolated optic neuritis and atypical headache require neuroimaging.
- Opaque sphenoid sinuses in this context warrant investigation and potential drainage.