Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 13, 2025
Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
How to approach complications of acute rhinosinusitis in children?
Saartje Uyttebroek1, Michelle Poelmans1, Ingele Casteels2
1Clinical Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Insights
Early recognition and prompt surgical intervention are crucial for managing acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) complications. Timely treatment of ARS complications can prevent permanent vision loss and neurological deficits.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Intraorbital and intracranial complications of acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) are rare but severe conditions.
- Prompt recognition and management are essential to prevent irreversible sequelae like vision loss and neurological deficits.
Observation:
- This case series reviews 6 patients with ARS complications treated at a tertiary center between 2017 and 2018.
- The cases highlight persistent permanent deficits despite advanced medical care, emphasizing the need for timely intervention.
Findings:
- Clinical manifestations and management strategies for these complications require renewed attention.
- A low threshold for endoscopic sinus surgery, even in pediatric cases, is recommended.
- A multidisciplinary approach is beneficial for managing these complex cases in young patients.
Implications:
- Early detection and intervention in ARS complications can significantly improve patient outcomes.
- Adherence to updated guidelines and a proactive surgical approach are critical.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration enhances the care of pediatric patients with severe ARS complications.
Abstract:
Intraorbital and intracranial complications of acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) are uncommon, but potentially life threatening. Signs of progression of ARS should be recognized early to allow timely surgical treatment in order to avoid irreversible lesions such as vision loss and neurological deficits. In this case series, we provide an overview of 6 representative cases who presented at our tertiary center (2017-2018). The aim of this case series is (1) to draw new attention to the clinical manifestations and management of these complications, since even in highly-developed medical settings we still observe permanent sequellae due to delayed or inadequate treatment, (2) to give an updated analysis of the guidelines, stressing the low threshold for endoscopic sinus surgery, even in children, (3) to underline the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach in these young patients.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Tonsillitis II: Management
01:30Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
01:29Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Equipment Required
01:30Epistaxis
Etiology
Possible causes of this condition include high blood pressure, trauma, low humidity, upper respiratory tract infections, allergies, foreign bodies, nasal inhalation of corticosteroids or illicit drugs, excessive use of decongestant nasal sprays, facial or nasal surgery, anatomic malformation, tumors, or systemic...
01:30Tonsillitis I: Introduction
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
01:23Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...