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Two cases with unusual mycetoma localizations in upper respiratory system
Devrim Bektaş1, Ahmet Ural, Rahmet Caylan
1Department of Otolaryngology, Medicine Faculty of Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey.
Summary
Fungus balls, noninvasive fungal accumulations, can occur in rare head and neck locations like the temporal bone and concha bullosa. These Aspergillus infections present as chronic, antibiotic-resistant symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungus balls (mycetomas) are noninvasive fungal accumulations, commonly found in paranasal sinuses.
- Aspergillus species are the most frequent cause of these indolent infections.
Observation:
- This article details two rare cases of fungus balls.
- One case occurred in an automastoidectomy cavity of the temporal bone.
- The second case was found within a concha bullosa.
Findings:
- Both patients presented with vague symptoms mimicking chronic infections.
- Symptoms were resistant to standard antibacterial treatments, suggesting a fungal etiology.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering fungal infections in refractory head and neck symptoms.
- Expands the known anatomical sites for fungus ball occurrence.
- Suggests Aspergillus as a potential pathogen in unusual otolaryngological locations.
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