[Fungal infection in the otorinolaryngologic area]

Satoru Kaieda1

  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Goto Cyuoh Hospital.

Insights

Fungal infections like otomycosis and aspergillosis are common in immunocompetent patients. Surgical removal and endoscopic sinus surgery are effective treatments for these ear and nose fungal diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Mycology
  • Medical Imaging

Context:

  • Fungal infections of the ear and nose present unique challenges in otolaryngologic practice.
  • Aspergillus species are the predominant pathogens identified in these infections.

Purpose:

  • To introduce recent trends in fungal ear and nose infections from an otolaryngologic perspective.
  • To highlight common pathogens and diagnostic findings, and outline effective management strategies.

Summary:

  • Aspergillus terreus, A. niger, and A. flavus are common causes of otomycosis.
  • Aspergillosis is the most frequent fungal sinus disease, often presenting as unilateral maxillary sinus opacity with calcifications on CT scans.
  • Surgical excision of fungal balls and endoscopic sinus surgery for drainage are effective treatments for sinonasal aspergillomas.

Impact:

  • These infections typically affect immunocompetent individuals, with no established link to diabetes mellitus.
  • Effective management relies on surgical intervention and endoscopic techniques for optimal patient outcomes.

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