[Mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus and their ophthalmological manifestations]

The authors describe two cases of sphenoïd sinus mucoceles, the first with a chiasmatic syndrome and the second with an oculomotor paralysis, and compare these cases with those described in the litterature. This rare benign tumor is revealed by ophthalmological complications which result from compression of adjacent structures. The main clinical findings are pain, decrease in visual acuity, proptosis, and diplopia. Plain X rays and pluridirectional tomographies are usually sufficient to make the diagnosis but CT scan is the procedure of choice for defining the extent of the lesion and thus assuring an appropriate surgical approach. The CT scan findings have been reviewed. Early and correct diagnosis is important to prevent permanent visual loss by optic nerve atrophy.