[Paranasal sinus mucoceles: About 32 cases]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Mucocele is a benign, expansive pseudo-cystic tumor of the paranasal sinuses.
• Despite its benign nature, it can aggressively invade adjacent orbital and intracranial structures.
• This pathology primarily affects adults, with potential for significant complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic, and evolution characteristics of paranasal sinus mucoceles.
• To analyze patient demographics, common symptoms, and diagnostic imaging modalities.
• To evaluate surgical outcomes and recurrence rates following treatment.

Main Methods:

• A 9-year retrospective study involving 32 patients with surgically treated paranasal sinus mucoceles.
• Data collection included patient demographics, clinical presentation, imaging findings, surgical procedures, and follow-up.
• Surgical approaches analyzed were endonasal marsupialization and combined approaches.

Main Results:

• The mean patient age was 43.28 years, with a 1:1 sex ratio.
• Fronto-ethmoid sinus was the most common site (27 cases), followed by maxillary (3) and sphenoid (2).
• Periorbital swelling and exophthalmia were the most frequent symptoms; CT confirmed diagnosis in most cases. Two recurrences were noted after 18 months.

Conclusions:

• Paranasal sinus mucocele is a benign, expansive tumor predominantly affecting adults.
• Clinical symptoms are often non-specific, but ophthalmic or intracranial complications can occur.
• Endonasal surgery is the established gold-standard treatment, demonstrating low morbidity and efficacy.