Fungal rhinosinusitis: a clinicomycological perspective

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a widely prevalent condition globally as well as in India. The spectrum of fungal involvement in CRS runs from benign colonisation to potentially life-threatening invasive disease. Successful treatment of such mycotic infections largely depends on the accurate identification of the pathogen, early and appropriate intervention by surgical clearance, supported with antifungal medication as per standard regimen. Thus, this study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of fungal rhinosinusitis (FRS), and to analyse its clinicomycological profile.

Fifty-two patients with clinical suspicion of CRS attending a tertiary care hospital during a one-year period were included in this retrospective analysis. The sinonasal specimens were subjected to microscopy by KOH mount and fungal culture as per standard mycological technique. Tissue specimens were also subjected to histopathological examination.

Male to female ratio was 1.25:1; age varied from 14 years to 62 years with majority of patients (37%) belonging to age group 21-40 years. The prevalence of FRS was 44%, and 74% of it was caused by Aspergillus sp. Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus) (52%) was the most prevalent fungus isolated. Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) was the most common presentation (79%).

FRS is a continuous spectrum of disease varying in presentation, treatment and long-term sequelae. Correct identification of the fungus remains essential for appropriate treatment.