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1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Daegu Fatima Hospital, Daegu, South Korea.
Objective:
Granulomatous invasive fungal sinusitis (GIFS) is a rare and life-threatening disease, whereas fungus ball (FB) is the most common form of noninvasive fungal sinusitis. Both GIFS and FB primarily develop in immunocompetent patients, with the former associated with higher mortality and morbidity.
Methods:
A chart review and review of the literature.
Results:
We present the case of a 77-year-old woman with mixed fungal sinusitis who was successfully treated with voriconazole.
Conclusions:
GIFS and FB can coexist in extremely rare cases, known as mixed fungal sinusitis; however, the diagnosis and subsequent treatment of mixed fungal sinusitis can be delayed because of a lack of awareness of the underlying concept. Therefore, it is crucial for clinicians to recognize the concept of mixed fungal sinusitis.
Insights
Granulomatous invasive fungal sinusitis (GIFS) and fungus ball (FB) can rarely coexist as mixed fungal sinusitis. Early recognition of this rare condition is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Granulomatous invasive fungal sinusitis (GIFS) is a rare, life-threatening fungal infection.
- Fungus ball (FB) is the most common noninvasive fungal sinusitis.
- Both conditions primarily affect immunocompetent individuals.
Observation:
- This study presents a rare case of mixed fungal sinusitis, where GIFS and FB coexisted.
- The patient was a 77-year-old woman diagnosed with mixed fungal sinusitis.
- The patient was successfully treated with voriconazole.
Findings:
- Mixed fungal sinusitis, a coexistence of GIFS and FB, is extremely rare.
- Diagnosis and treatment of mixed fungal sinusitis can be delayed due to lack of awareness.
- Successful treatment with voriconazole was achieved in the presented case.
Implications:
- Clinicians must be aware of the possibility of mixed fungal sinusitis.
- Prompt recognition of mixed fungal sinusitis is vital for improving patient outcomes.
- This case highlights voriconazole as a potential treatment for mixed fungal sinusitis.

