DESTRUCTIVE NON-INVASIVE INFECTION IN ISOLATED FRONTAL SINUS
ASPERGILLOMA: REVEALING PREVALENCE AND PROPOSITION OF A NEW PATHOGENETIC
MODEL.
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study is to report our cases of isolated
frontal sinus aspergilloma (FSA), and identify key features and aspects
suggestive of this pathology. Moreover, we have investigated the
pathogenesis of this FSA, which has not been clearly elucidated yet.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective study on cases of isolated FSA
treated at the unit of Otolaryngology of the Hopital Lariboisière in
Paris from 2009 to 2023 was performed. A chart review was done,
Demographic and radiologic data, type of treatment with intraoperative
findings, and follow-up were analyzed. Moreover, a literature review was
carried out on Pubmed and Scopus using the search terms “frontal sinus
aspergilloma”, “frontal sinus fungus ball” and “frontal sinus
mycetoma”. Non-invasive FSA characteristics, especially the relation
with surrounding bony structures were analyzed. Results: Six patients
were included. The median age of the patients was 58 years old (range
25-69); 2/6 patients were female. The most common symptom was headache.
All the patients underwent exclusive endoscopic sinus surgery. With
regards to literature review, 17 papers have been identified reporting a
total number of 30 cases of FSA. Overall, frontal sinus walls erosion
was described in 47% of the cases showing a prevalence of erosive
behavior of this pathology. Conclusions: FSA shows a higher incidence of
bone erosion compared to other PSA. The destructive behavior of FSA
could increase the risk of potential intracranial and intraorbital
complications. Recognizing the radiological features of FSA, is crucial
for accurate differential diagnosis with invasive forms of fungal
infections and treatment planning.