Allergic fungal sinusitis- A clinico-pathological study

A Ravikumar1, S Mohanty, R P Vatsanath

  • 1Department of ENT-Head & Neck Surgery, Sriramachandra Medical College & Research Institute, Deemed University, Ramachandra Nagar, Porur, Chennai-600116 Tamil Nadu, India.

Insights

Allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) often co-exists with nasal polyposis but can be missed pre-operatively. Early consideration of AFS in nasal polyposis cases improves patient management.

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.

Related Concept Videos

Fungal Phylum Ascomycota01:28

Fungal Phylum Ascomycota

Phylum Ascomycota, a major division within the subkingdom Dikarya, comprises a diverse range of fungal species, including both unicellular yeasts and filamentous molds such as Aspergillus and Penicillium. These fungi thrive in a variety of habitats, from aquatic ecosystems to terrestrial environments, playing crucial ecological and economic roles.Morphology and ReproductionThe defining characteristic of Ascomycetes, commonly referred to as sac fungi, is the ascus—a sac-like structure that...
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia01:28

Fungal Phylum Microsporidia

Microsporidia are a group of obligate intracellular fungi that were initially classified as protists but were later reclassified based on phylogenetic, molecular, and structural evidence linking them to the Chytridiomycota. These unicellular, non-motile organisms are highly specialized parasites that infect a wide range of animal hosts, including humans. They have evolved extensive genomic and metabolic reductions, making them highly dependent on their hosts for survival.Morphology and Genomic...
Sputum Studies II: Culture and Sensitivity01:20

Sputum Studies II: Culture and Sensitivity

Description
Sputum culture and sensitivity is a medical procedure used to diagnose bacterial infections in the respiratory tract and select the most appropriate antibiotics for treatment. This process involves analyzing sputum samples of thick and opaque secretions produced in the lungs and airways. These samples are collected from patients and then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
The test can identify various pathogens responsible for respiratory infections, including Streptococcus,...
Sputum Studies I: Gram Stain, cytology, and Acid-fast smear and culture01:26

Sputum Studies I: Gram Stain, cytology, and Acid-fast smear and culture

Sputum studies are a critical part of diagnosing and treating numerous respiratory conditions. These studies involve obtaining sputum samples for analysis to identify pathogenic organisms and assess the presence of abnormal cells indicative of malignant conditions. This lesson will delve into three fundamental sputum studies: Gram Stain, Cytology, and Acid-fast Smear and Culture.
Gram Stain
The Gram Stain is an integral part of sputum studies. It involves the staining of sputum, which permits...