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A forgotten foreign body in the frontal sinus.
B Viswanatha1, L Krishna Naik, S Karthik
1Department of ENT, Victoria Hospital, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bangalore, India.
Summary
A rare case of a foreign body in the frontal sinus highlights the longest reported asymptomatic retention period of 28 years. This discovery underscores the potential for delayed complications from head trauma.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Foreign bodies in the frontal sinus are uncommon, often resulting from trauma.
- Asymptomatic retention of foreign bodies can occur for extended periods.
- Delayed presentation of frontal sinus foreign bodies poses diagnostic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a unique case of a long-retained asymptomatic foreign body in the frontal sinus.
- To review the existing literature on foreign bodies within the frontal sinus.
- To emphasize the importance of thorough patient history and diagnostic evaluation.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 46-year-old female with a discharging wound.
- Surgical exploration revealing a glass foreign body in the frontal sinus.
- Literature review of similar cases concerning frontal sinus foreign bodies.
Main Results:
- A glass piece was identified and removed from the right frontal sinus.
- The patient had a history of a road traffic accident 28 years prior.
- This represents the longest reported duration of an asymptomatic foreign body in the frontal sinus.
Conclusions:
- Foreign bodies in the frontal sinus can remain asymptomatic for decades.
- Delayed diagnosis is possible, even after many years.
- Prompt identification and management are crucial for preventing complications.
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