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Irreversible unilateral visual loss due to acute sinusitis
1Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Md.
Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|December 1, 1991
Summary
Orbital apex syndrome, caused by sphenoethmoiditis, can lead to vision loss. Acute sphenoethmoiditis increases the risk of permanent visual impairment compared to other sinusitis types.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Otorhinolaryngology
Background:
- Orbital apex syndrome (OAS) involves extension of sphenoethmoiditis into the orbital apex.
- OAS can cause visual loss and ophthalmoplegia with subtle orbital signs.
Observation:
- A 74-year-old woman presented with OAS and irreversible unilateral visual loss.
- The visual loss was secondary to bacterial sphenoethmoiditis.
Findings:
- Sphenoethmoiditis extending to the orbital apex is a critical cause of OAS.
- Bacterial sphenoethmoiditis poses a significant risk for permanent visual loss.
Implications:
- Prompt diagnosis and management of sphenoethmoiditis are crucial to prevent irreversible vision loss.
- Patients with acute sphenoethmoiditis require vigilant monitoring for potential visual complications.