Ethmoid mucocele presenting as an orbital mass

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Mucoceles are rare in children, developing from obstructed paranasal sinus drainage.
• Sinus obstruction can result from inflammation, trauma, or previous surgical interventions.
• This case involves an 11-year-old male with an ethmoid sinus mucocele.

Observation:

• The patient presented with a significant orbital mass.
• The mucocele was suspected to be linked to a prior ipsilateral orbital subperiosteal abscess.
• Endoscopic drainage for the abscess was performed 9 years prior to this presentation.

Findings:

• A diagnosis of ethmoid sinus mucocele was established.
• The mucocele's likely etiology is a sequela of the previous orbital subperiosteal abscess and drainage.
• This presentation underscores the potential for delayed complications from sinus and orbital pathology.

Implications:

• Pediatric orbital masses warrant thorough investigation for underlying sinus mucocele.
• Early recognition and management of sinus obstruction may prevent mucocele formation.
• This case highlights the importance of considering remote surgical history in pediatric orbital presentations.