Ophthalmic manifestations of paranasal sinus mucocoeles

To investigate the ophthalmic manifestations of paranasal sinus mucocoeles.

A retrospective study of all patients (1992-1998) diagnosed with paranasal sinus mucocoeles. All patients had a CT scan.

Of the 45 patients, only 3 (6.7%) did not have ophthalmic symptoms or signs. The most common (64.4%) presenting feature was peri-orbital swelling, often associated with pain and tenderness. Other presenting features included diplopia, proptosis, hypoglobus, diplopia, decreased colour vision, epiphora, facial swelling and nasal polyps. The frontal sinus was the most commonly (70%) involved site.

Paranasal sinus mucocoeles present most commonly with ophthalmic symptoms and signs. Patients with this condition are therefore highly likely to present initially to the ophthalmology department. Awareness of the aetiology of this condition is important so that appropriate and timely referral is made to the otolaryngologists to ensure appropriate management of this condition.