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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.
Abstract:
The co-existence of fungal elements in allergic nasal Polyposis, has given rise to a distinct clinical entity known as 'Allergic fungal sinusitis ' (AF'S). Many a time, these fungal elements may not be diagnosed pre-operatively by routine diagnostic nasal endoscopy or CT scan of paranasal sinuses, due to the florid presentation of nasal polyps, which usually obscure the underlying fungal pathology. The diagnosis is often made intra-operatively. The post-operative confirmation of AFS is by histopathology, fungal smear, fungal culture, allergic murin study and fungal specific IgE titres. We report a series often such cases done in our institution, which highlight that AFS should be considered as a differential diagnosis in Sinonasal Polyposis cases, for their effective management.
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.
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