Incidental Findings of Asymptomatic Fungal Infection

Nisha Manila1, Madhu Nair2, Hui Liang3

  • 1Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Dentistry, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

Case Reports in Dentistry
|September 15, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Fungal sinusitis, a rare but severe infection, can affect healthy individuals and requires prompt diagnosis. This case highlights its presentation in an immunocompetent patient, emphasizing the role of CT scans.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Radiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Fungal sinusitis is uncommon in healthy individuals but prevalent in immunocompromised patients.
  • It is often misdiagnosed and can be severe, with some forms having high mortality rates.
  • Accurate diagnosis relies on prompt analysis and radiological findings.

Observation:

  • Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) revealed a bulky, soft-tissue-density lesion in the ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses.
  • CBCT suggested expansion of the ethmoid sinus and potential perforation of the sphenoid sinus floor.
  • Multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) showed opacification, central dense material, and extension into multiple sinuses.

Findings:

  • Radiographic features on CT scans were consistent with invasive fungal sinusitis.
  • The case presented is fungal sinusitis in an otherwise healthy young male.
  • Computed tomography (CT) of the paranasal sinuses is crucial for diagnosis.

Implications:

  • Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for a favorable prognosis.
  • Awareness among dental professionals is important for timely identification.
  • This case underscores that fungal sinusitis can occur in immunocompetent individuals.

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