Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2025

Intrathecal Application of a Fluorescent Dye for the Identification of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks in Cochlear Malformation
Published on: February 29, 2020
An Unusual Case of Type 2 Fronto-Ethmoidal Mucopyocele
Aishwarya Vijayappan1, Prasad Deshmukh2, Sagar S Gaurkar3
1Otolaryngology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, IND.
Abstract:
Mucoceles of the paranasal sinuses are epithelium-lined cystic masses that develop when the sinus ostia get obstructed. They most frequently occur in the frontal and ethmoid sinuses. The paranasal sinus mucoceles' proximity to the orbit and skull base renders the patient at risk for substantial morbidity. Mucoceles have reactive bone growth, bleeding, fibrosis, and granulation tissue, which are histological traits of respiratory mucosa. The conventional therapy is surgical excision, with endoscopic procedures becoming more popular. A 60-year-old female patient reported to the ENT outpatient clinic complaining of swelling over the medial aspect of her left eye that had begun slowly and progressed over a year. Although there were no neurological, ocular, nasal, or facial symptoms clinically, radiological and cytological examinations aided us in arriving at the definitive diagnosis. The patient in this scenario had an infected mucocele and left medial canthal swelling with no visual impairment, which made it challenging to reach an accurate diagnosis. However, radiological evaluation and cytological examination focused on establishing a definitive diagnosis.
Insights
Paranasal sinus mucoceles are cystic masses that can cause serious complications due to their location. Diagnosis of an infected mucocele with medial canthal swelling was confirmed via imaging and cytology.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pathology
Background:
- Paranasal sinus mucoceles are epithelium-lined cysts resulting from obstructed sinus ostia.
- They commonly affect the frontal and ethmoid sinuses, posing risks to the orbit and skull base.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old female presented with a year-long, slow-progressing medial left eye swelling.
- Clinical examination revealed no neurological, ocular, nasal, or facial symptoms, complicating the initial diagnosis.
Findings:
- Radiological and cytological examinations were crucial for diagnosing an infected mucocele with medial canthal swelling.
- The case highlights diagnostic challenges in the absence of typical symptoms, despite the presence of visual impairment.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis of paranasal sinus mucoceles relies on advanced imaging and cytology, especially in atypical presentations.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are essential to prevent morbidity associated with orbital and skull base proximity.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Cranial Bones: Lateral View
The temporal bone forms the lower lateral side of the skull. The temporal bone is subdivided into several regions. The flattened upper portion is the squamous portion of the temporal bone. Below this area and projecting anteriorly is the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, which forms the posterior portion of the zygomatic arch. Posteriorly is the mastoid portion of the temporal bone. Projecting...
Nose and Nasal Cavity
Epistaxis
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...

