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Published on: June 15, 2019

Lethal sphenoid fungal sinusitis in an immunocompromised elderly patient

C M Chen1, J Y Fan, W L Chen

  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan.

B-ENT
|November 12, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Sphenoid fungal balls, though rare, can be life-threatening when complicated by infections or invasion. This case highlights the severe risks in immunocompromised patients with poorly controlled diabetes.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurosurgery

Background:

  • Sphenoid fungal balls are uncommon sinus infections.
  • They are usually slow-growing but can become invasive.
  • Superinfection or invasion poses significant risks, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

Observation:

  • An elderly female patient with uncontrolled diabetes presented with sphenoid fungal sinusitis.
  • The condition was complicated by cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis and carotid artery stenosis.
  • Despite timely diagnosis and treatment, the patient's condition worsened.

Findings:

  • The case illustrates a fatal outcome from sphenoid fungal sinusitis.
  • Complications included cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis and carotid artery stenosis.
  • Delayed identification and treatment of complications in immunocompromised patients can be catastrophic.

Implications:

  • Early recognition and aggressive management of sphenoid fungal sinusitis are crucial.
  • Underlying conditions like diabetes mellitus significantly increase patient risk.
  • This case underscores the importance of considering invasive fungal sinusitis in diabetic patients with neurological symptoms.

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