Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
Dematiaceous fungal sinusitis
L A Zieske1, R D Kopke, R Hamill
1Department of Surgery, Tripler Army Medical Center, HI 96859-5000.
Abstract:
Six cases of dematiaceous fungal sinusitis are reported, together with a review of 33 other cases collated from a review of the English literature. The sinusitis was more often unilateral vs. bilateral. A characteristic serpiginous hyperdense intrasinus opacification, as well as sinus expansion with bone erosion, was often seen on CT scan. MRI scan showed lucent sinus cavities on T1 and T2 weighting. A comparison of surgical treatment vs. surgery with systemic antifungal therapy revealed decreased recurrence and complication statistics in the combined therapy group. There was a trend toward increased recurrence/persistence and complications associated with invasive histologic findings and only surgical treatment, but not statistically significant. At the present time, we recommend comprehensive surgical treatment followed by systemic antifungal therapy, though clinical judgment and individualization should occur. Future studies are planned to further define the disease entity and its therapy.
Insights
Dematiaceous fungal sinusitis, often unilateral, presents unique CT/MRI findings. Combined surgical and antifungal therapy significantly reduces recurrence and complications compared to surgery alone.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Otolaryngology
- Radiology
Background:
- Dematiaceous fungal sinusitis is a rare but significant clinical entity.
- Understanding its presentation and optimal treatment is crucial for patient outcomes.
Observation:
- Six new cases and 33 literature cases of dematiaceous fungal sinusitis were reviewed.
- Sinusitis was frequently unilateral, with characteristic CT (serpiginous hyperdense opacification, bone erosion) and MRI (T1/T2 hypointense) findings.
- Invasive histologic features were noted in some cases.
Findings:
- Combined surgical treatment and systemic antifungal therapy demonstrated lower recurrence and complication rates than surgery alone.
- While not statistically significant, a trend towards increased recurrence and complications was observed with surgery alone, especially with invasive histology.
Implications:
- Comprehensive surgical management followed by systemic antifungal therapy is recommended for dematiaceous fungal sinusitis.
- Individualized treatment plans are essential, considering clinical judgment.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate this disease and refine therapeutic strategies.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Fungal Group Zygomycota
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
Fungal Phylum Ascomycota
Viral Meningitis
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Candidiasis

