Persistent Severe Headache After Removal of Fungus Ball From the Sphenoid Sinus: A Case Report

Tae Hoon Kim1, SungHee Kim1

  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Daegu Fatima Hospital, Daegu, South Korea.

Abstract

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.