Aneurysmal bone cyst of the sphenoid sinus

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery
• Pathology

Background:

• Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are rare, benign, expansile bone lesions.
• Sphenoid sinus ABCs are exceptionally uncommon, with limited literature.
• Distinguishing ABCs from other sphenoid sinus pathologies is crucial for appropriate management.

Observation:

• This report details a rare case of an aneurysmal bone cyst in the sphenoid sinus.
• The cyst was associated with fibrous dysplasia, presenting complex radiological features.
• Initial imaging suggested a mucocoele, complicating the differential diagnosis.

Findings:

• Radiological findings presented similarities to a mucocoele, necessitating careful evaluation.
• The co-occurrence of aneurysmal bone cyst and fibrous dysplasia in the sphenoid sinus is highly unusual.
• Pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and imaging characteristics of these lesions were analyzed.

Implications:

• Accurate differentiation between sphenoid sinus ABCs and mucocoeles is vital.
• A simple drainage procedure is proposed as an effective treatment for sphenoid sinus ABCs.
• This case expands the understanding of rare sphenoid sinus pathologies and their management.