Allergic fungal sinusitis- A clinico-pathological study

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Allergy and Immunology
• Mycology

Background:

• Allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) is a distinct clinical entity characterized by fungal elements within allergic nasal polyposis.
• Diagnosis can be challenging pre-operatively due to polypoid obstruction, often leading to intra-operative or post-operative identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of considering AFS as a differential diagnosis in sinonasal polyposis.
• To emphasize the diagnostic methods and effective management strategies for AFS.

Main Methods:

• Review of ten cases diagnosed with AFS at the institution.
• Utilized post-operative confirmation methods including histopathology, fungal smears, fungal cultures, allergic murine studies, and specific IgE titers.

Main Results:

• Ten cases of AFS co-existing with sinonasal polyposis were identified.
• Intra-operative findings and post-operative investigations confirmed the presence of fungal elements.

Conclusions:

• AFS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of sinonasal polyposis.
• Timely diagnosis and consideration of AFS are crucial for effective management of affected patients.