Lacrimal sac rhinosporidiosis

Pradipta Kumar Parida1, Saranya Thangavel2, Kalaiarasi Raja3

  • 1ENT & Head Neck Surgery, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, India.

BMJ Case Reports
|June 29, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Rhinosporidiosis, a chronic nasal disease caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi, can rarely affect the lacrimal sac. This case highlights a patient with delayed lacrimal sac involvement after initial nasal surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Rhinosporidiosis is a chronic granulomatous infection primarily affecting the nasal and nasopharyngeal mucosa.
  • Caused by the aquatic fungus-like organism Rhinosporidium seeberi.
  • Ocular and adnexal involvement is exceptionally rare.

Observation:

  • A 35-year-old male presented with symptoms of lacrimal sac involvement.
  • The patient had a history of nasal rhinosporidiosis treated with endoscopic nasal surgery five years prior.
  • This case represents a rare instance of secondary lacrimal sac rhinosporidiosis.

Findings:

  • The patient exhibited clinical signs consistent with dacryocystitis.
  • Diagnostic evaluation confirmed Rhinosporidium seeberi in the lacrimal sac.
  • The findings underscore the potential for delayed recurrence or spread of rhinosporidiosis to adjacent structures.

Implications:

  • This case emphasizes the importance of considering rhinosporidiosis in the differential diagnosis of lacrimal sac masses, even after prior nasal treatment.
  • Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial to prevent complications.
  • Further research into the pathogenesis and long-term surveillance of rhinosporidiosis is warranted.