Fungal sinusitis

MR Findings of Fungus Ball: Significance of High Signal Intensity on T1-Weighted Images

BACKGROUND

Central dark-signal intensity with high-signal, hypertrophic mucosal wall of paranasal sinuses on T2-weighted images (T2WI) is a characteristic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) feature of sinonasal fungus ball. However, this finding is usually interpreted as non-fungal chronic sinusitis with central normal sinus air. In addition, T1-weighted images (T1WI) and T2WI are basic sequences of all magnetic resonance (MR) examinations. Therefore, we evaluated the usefulness of T1WI for detecting fungus balls comparing with computed tomography (CT) findings and T2-weighted MRI findings.

METHODS

This retrospective study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Korea University Guro Hospital. Two reviewers assessed preoperative CT and MR images of 55 patients with pathologically confirmed fungus balls. Reviewers evaluated the presence and patterns of calcifications on CT. Overall signals and the presence and extent of certain signals of fungus balls on MRI were also assessed. The relationship between calcifications and MRI signals was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the patients, 89.1% had calcifications on CT. All had dark signal portions with high signal, hypertrophic mucosal walls on T2WI. Most (92.7%) patients showed iso- to hyper-intense overall signals on T1WI and 89.1% had T1-weighted high signal portions on MRI. The presence, patterns, and location of calcifications had no significant correlation with T1-weighted high-signal intensity portion.

CONCLUSION

Fungus ball can be suggested by the presence of the hyper-signal intensity portions in the fungal mass on T1WI in conjunction with dark-signal lesions surrounded by high-signal, hypertrophic mucosal walls in paranasal sinuses on T2WI.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Invasive Fungal Sinusitis in Cancer and Transplant Patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Modern advances in oncologic and end-organ therapies have led to an increase in immunocompromised patients and a corresponding rise in acute invasive fungal sinusitis (AIFS). Here, we present a comprehensive medical and surgical approach to the diagnosis and management of immunocompromised cancer and transplant patients with AIFS.

RECENT FINDINGS

Aspergillus and Mucorales are the most common fungi to cause AIFS, though atypical fungal pathogens have been implicated particularly among patients on azole prophylaxis. Symptoms present in the majority of AIFS cases include fever, nasal congestion, and facial swelling. Nasal endoscopy and radiology are adjuncts to clinical exam with the gold standard diagnostic test still being histopathology, though molecular testing such as panfungal PCR is playing a larger role. The treatment of AIFS requires surgery, antifungal therapy, and reversal of immunosuppression. We recommend initiation of liposomal amphotericin B as an empiric therapy for AIFS, transitioned to targeted therapy when/if a fungal pathogen is identified. Goals of surgery include diagnostic sampling and debridement of necrotic tissue. Equally, if not more important, is reversal of underlying immune suppression. Immune-stimulating therapies hold promise for reducing mortality, but require additional study. Despite improvements in medical and surgical management of AIFS, mortality continues to approach 50%. Early diagnosis of this disease entity followed by aggressive surgical and medical management are important, including reversal of the underlying immunosuppression.

Clinical Characteristics Other Than Intralesional Hyperdensity May Increase the Preoperative Diagnostic Accuracy of Maxillary Sinus Fungal Ball

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics of maxillary sinus fungus ball (MFB) to increase the preoperative diagnostic accuracy.

Methods

A retrospective review of 247 patients who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery for unilateral maxillary sinusitis from January 2015 to December 2017 at a single institution was performed. Patients with pathologically proven MFB were compared to those with unilateral chronic maxillary sinusitis (CMS). Patient demographics and computed tomography (CT) findings were evaluated. The CT features were categorized as intralesional hyperdensity (calcification), the irregular lobulated protruding lesion (fuzzy appearance), maxillary sinus full haziness without mass effect, maxillary sinus full haziness with mass effect, and others. A regression tree analysis was performed.

Results

In total, 247 patients were analyzed; among them, 179 (72.5%) had MFB and 68 (27.5%) had CMS. MFB showed predominance in older individuals. Among the radiological features, intralesional hyperdensity was most commonly associated with MFB. The presence of a fuzzy appearance or full opacity with mass effect was also associated with MFB. The highest area under the curve was noted with the regression tree analysis based on the model, which included the presence of intralesional hyperdensity, demographic data (age), and presence of fuzzy appearance or maxillary sinus full haziness with mass effect in case of absence of intralesional hyperdensity (0.904).

Conclusion

A simple algorithm to optimize the preoperative diagnosis of MFB was developed. Physicians should be aware of such findings in the management of patients presenting with unilateral CMS.

Invasive Fungal Carotiditis: A Rare Manifestation of Cranial Invasive Fungal Disease: Case Series and Systematic Review of the Literature

Background

Rhinosinusitis, malignant otitis externa, and skull base osteomyelitis represent a spectrum of cranial invasive fungal disease (IFD). These syndromes have distinct characteristics, yet they may progress to involve similar structures, resulting in inflammation and invasion of the adjacent internal carotid artery (ICA). Invasive fungal carotiditis can have devastating consequences, including cerebral infarction, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and death.

Methods

We retrospectively studied all patients diagnosed with cranial IFD and carotid involvement at our institution from 2003 to 2018. We also searched Medline/PubMed for reports of Aspergillus or Mucorales cranial infections with ICA involvement. All cases with mycologic evidence of cranial IFD and radiographic or pathologic evidence of ICA involvement were included.

Results

We identified 78 cases of invasive fungal carotiditis between 1958 and 2018, including 4 cases at our own institution. Forty-one were caused by Aspergillus and 37 by Mucorales species. Presenting symptoms included vision changes (73%), cranial nerve palsy (69%), and headache (42%). Carotid events included occlusion, aneurysm formation, and vessel rupture. Cerebral infarcts occurred in 50% of cases. Mortality at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 2 years was 27%, 41%, and 71% respectively. The median time from symptom onset to death was 150 days for cases due to Aspergillus and 51 days for cases due to Mucorales species.

Conclusions

Invasive fungal carotiditis is a rare but morbid manifestation of cranial IFD. Early suspicion of IFD and administration of antifungal treatment, vascular imaging, and endovascular interventions should be considered to reduce the high mortality of this disease.

Isolated Sphenoid Sinus Lesions: Experience with a Few Rare Pathologies

INTRODUCTION

The sphenoid sinus is often neglected because of its difficult access. The deep position of the sphenoid sinus hinders early diagnosis of pathologies in that location. Delayed diagnosis can cause serious complications due to proximity to many important structures.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to demonstrate different pathologies which can affect the sphenoid sinus and elucidate the findings.

METHODS

Cases of isolated sphenoid sinus lesions encountered in the neurosurgical setting which had rare pathologies are discussed. Pathologies such as Langerhans cell histiocytosis, solitary plasmacytoma, chordoma, pituitary adenoma, leiomyosarcoma, fungal infection, and mucocele which appeared primarily in sphenoid sinus are discussed along with their imaging features and pathological findings.

CONCLUSION

Multitude of different pathologies can occur in sphenoid sinus. Detailed preoperative imaging is very helpful, but transnasal biopsy and histological study are required often for definitive diagnosis. The possible advantages of early diagnosis before spread of pathology for prognosis cannot be overemphasized.

Invasive Aspergillosis by Aspergillus flavus: Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Antifungal Resistance, and Management

Aspergillus flavus is the second most common etiological agent of invasive aspergillosis (IA) after A. fumigatus. However, most literature describes IA in relation to A. fumigatus or together with other Aspergillus species. Certain differences exist in IA caused by A. flavus and A. fumigatus and studies on A. flavus infections are increasing. Hence, we performed a comprehensive updated review on IA due to A. flavus. A. flavus is the cause of a broad spectrum of human diseases predominantly in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa possibly due to its ability to survive better in hot and arid climatic conditions compared to other Aspergillus spp. Worldwide, ~10% of cases of bronchopulmonary aspergillosis are caused by A. flavus. Outbreaks have usually been associated with construction activities as invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in immunocompromised patients and cutaneous, subcutaneous, and mucosal forms in immunocompetent individuals. Multilocus microsatellite typing is well standardized to differentiate A. flavus isolates into different clades. A. flavus is intrinsically resistant to polyenes. In contrast to A. fumigatus, triazole resistance infrequently occurs in A. flavus and is associated with mutations in the cyp51C gene. Overexpression of efflux pumps in non-wildtype strains lacking mutations in the cyp51 gene can also lead to high voriconazole minimum inhibitory concentrations. Voriconazole remains the drug of choice for treatment, and amphotericin B should be avoided. Primary therapy with echinocandins is not the first choice but the combination with voriconazole or as monotherapy may be used when the azoles and amphotericin B are contraindicated.

Internal Carotid Artery Bleed: A Rare Complication of Invasive Sphenoidal Aspergillosis

BACKGROUND

Invasive sinonasal aspergillosis is rarely seen in immunocompetent individuals. It may involve adjacent intracranial and intraorbital structures causing high morbidity and mortality.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We report a rare case of invasive Aspergillus sinusitis in a young, immunocompetent woman causing headache and vision loss. Endoscopic débridement under general anesthesia was complicated by rupture of a mycotic cavernous carotid artery aneurysm. This was managed by packing with muscle and fascia followed by endovascular coiling. Subsequently, the aneurysm extended intradurally and caused fatal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS

This case emphasizes the need for early diagnosis of invasive fungal sinusitis to prevent intracranial complications and fatal outcome. When the diagnosis is made, aggressive treatment with surgical débridement and adjuvant antifungal therapy is required. Internal carotid artery involvement is a rare but life-threatening complication of invasive fungal sinusitis.

Fungal Rhinosinusitis: Unravelling the Disease Spectrum

Fungal rhinosinusitis (FRS), once considered a rare disease, has seen a steep rise in incidence in recent times. This global rise in the burden of fungal disease is a consequence of an increment in the population with weakened immune systems. Increased life expectancy with rise in conditions like diabetes mellitus, medical advancements with invasive interventions, use of immunosuppressive drugs and chemo-radiotherapy all lead to unique risk situations. The situation becomes more alarming with the fact that there has been a significant rise in cases in immune-competent hosts with no predisposing factors. FRS represents a wide spectrum of disease ranging from the mild form of superficial colonization, allergic manifestations to life threatening extensive invasive disease. The categorization of disease into acute and chronic and invasive or noninvasive is important factor with implications in disease management and prognosis and this has been emphasized greatly in recent years. Diagnosis of FRS has been a challenge as the presenting clinical signs and symptoms and radiographic manifestations are often nonspecific. Definitive diagnosis requires direct fungi identification and hence culture and microscopic examination remain the gold standard. Availability of advanced and rapid diagnostic techniques is rare in majority of developing nations. Therapeutic dilemmas are another aspect of the management of FRS as in spite of the availability of new antifungal drugs, treatment is often empirical due to non-availability of early diagnosis, rapid disease progression and high costs of antifungal drugs. A description of the different types of FRS, their diagnosis and management has been presented in this review.

An unusual case of complicated rhinosinusitis of the sphenoid sinus involving the cavernous sinus and skull base: Endoscopic sinus surgery and medical therapy

Isolated sphenoid sinus diseases are generally asymptomatic and relatively uncommon with the potential for serious complications. Patients with this condition should be monitored closely and treated aggressively and either diagnostic or therapeutic intent is often indicated. In the management of a complex, life-threatening condition that involves many different fields of expertise, the otolaryngologist plays a key role in orchestrating different specialists and gaining direct access to the affected area, thus taking the first and essential step towards diagnosis and therapy. Because of the superiority of computed tomography in defining the bony margins and the superior soft tissue resolution of magnetic resonance imaging, these two techniques should be used in a complementary manner in the evaluation of isolated sphenoid sinus disease in addition to mapping the lesion better and identifying intracranial and intraorbital extent. We report an unusual case of isolated rhinosinusitis of the sphenoid sinus involving the cavernous sinus, pterygoid fossae and masticatory space in an immunocompetent patient.

Diagnosing Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis: A Review

Dr. Hinson and his colleagues first described allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in 1952. Later in 1977, Rosenberg proposed a diagnostic criteria for ABPA that even today remains widely acknowledged. Despite these steps taken, there still isn't a standardized diagnostic criteria set for ABPA although many have been proposed by various physicians over the years. ABPA is a condition caused by hypersensitivity to Aspergillus fumigatus antigens. It is seen most commonly in patients with either asthma or cystic fibrosis. In susceptible hosts, repeated inhalation of Aspergillus spores can cause an allergic response. Although a standardized diagnostic criteria is re­quired, there is no single test that establishes the diagnosis oth­er than a demonstration of central bronchiectasis (CB) with nor­mal tapering bronchi, a feature that is still considered pathognomonic of ABPA. Because of lack of standardized diagnostic criteria and screening, even today ABPA is under diagnosed and often times treatment for it is delayed. This can lead to complications in patients like pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis with chronic sputum production, and increasingly severe persistent asthma with loss of lung function. For this alone, it becomes imperative that the diagnostic criteria guidelines need to be reviewed and standardized preferably with the help of larger research studies. In the following review article, we address the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and the current cumulative view regarding the diagnosis of ABPA.

Diabetes in the practice of otolaryngology

Diabetes mellitus is the most common endocrine disease, characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. The hyperglycemic milieu leads to endothelial injury in blood vessels of variant size, which results in microangiopathy and macroangiopathy (atherosclerosis). Consequential ischemia of nerves and hyperglycemia by itself lead to nerve degeneration and generalized neuropathy, affecting most often the sensory peripheral nerves and the autonomic nervous system. Auditory, vestibular and olfactory sensorium may be compromised by DM. People with DM have an increased susceptibility to infection, as a result of neutrophil dysfunction and impaired humoral immunity. Therefore DM predisposes to certain infectious diseases, such as fungal sinusitis or malignant otitis externa, which are rare in general population. Recovery from infections or from injuries may be compromised by coexisting DM. In this review we discuss complications of DM in the head and neck region. Otolaryngologists and general practitioners should be alert to specific conditions related to DM and be minded of the relevant complications and consequences.

Basilar Occlusion and Rupture Secondary to Rare Fungal Sinusitis

BACKGROUND

Intracranial vascular infections of fungal etiology are extremely rare. Most cases occur in immunocompromised patients with invasive fungal disease, most commonly originating in the paranasal sinuses or the lungs. Granulomatous invasive rhinosinusitis, which is extremely rare in North America, has been reported to affect immunocompetent patients in most cases, and its causative strain has potential to invade the intracranial arteries. We present a rare case of basilar artery rupture and infarction secondary to granulomatous invasive rhinosinusitis.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 50-year-old man in Florida presented with ischemic symptoms and a 6-month history of headache, dizziness, and falls. After biopsy, the patient developed subarachnoid hemorrhage and thrombosis. Several thrombectomy attempts were performed, resulting in persistent occlusion of the basilar artery and subsequent comatous state. After discussion with the patient's family, compassionate weaning and autopsy were authorized.

CONCLUSIONS

Invasive fungal rhinosinusitis is more frequent nowadays owing to increased use of immunosuppressive therapies. However, it is still a disease that mostly affects immunocompromised patients. The development of new microbiologic investigation techniques has enabled the discovery of fungal diseases that can also affect immunocompetent hosts, such as granulomatous invasive rhinosinusitis. This is an extremely rare condition in North America, with very few cases documented in the last few decades.

Randomised Comparison of Safety Profile and Short Term Response of Itraconazole, Voriconazole and Amphotericin B in the Management of Chronic Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis

Chronic invasive fungal rhino sinusitis (CIFS) is a well described clinical entity characterized by mucosal and sub mucosal infiltration of mycotic organisms and angio-centric extension into orbital and intracranial structures. Itraconazole, Voriconazole and Amphotericin B are commonly used for CIFS. In the present study we have evaluated short term clinical response of these drugs. Thirty diagnosed patients of CIFS who presented to us from January 2011 to December 2015 were divided into three groups randomly. Group A, B and C received Itraconazole, Voriconazole and Amphotericin respectively. Visual Analogue scale (VAS), Lund Mackay (LM) radiological scores and Kupferberg's nasal endoscopic grades were seen and compared in all patients before treatment, after primary surgical debridement and biopsy and after post biopsy antifungal drug treatment. We assessed the serum drug levels using HPLC assay at 4 and 8 weeks of therapy and correlated them for efficacy and safety. All the groups had significant improvement after treatment compared to beginning of study. Inter group comparison showed that mean LM, NE and VAS scores were significantly better in Voriconazole group compared to Itraconazole and amphotericin B therapy. The reduction of these objective parameters with treatment was also significantly high in Voriconazole group compared to the other two groups. Voriconazole has shown to be the most effective treatment modality for chronic invasive fungal sinusitis compared to other commonly used drugs such as Itraconazole and Amphotericin B.

Incidental Findings in TMJ Imaging

For years, the conventional imaging modalities are generally used in dental practice routine. They provide precious information about dentomaxillofacial region; they also have some limitations such as superimpositions, magnifications, distortions, and low-image quality. Because of these limitations, some pathologies, calcifications, and anatomical variations may be missed. Any findings on a radiographic image which are not related to the research areas of interest could be a description of “incidental findings.” Calcifications are one of these incidental findings. They are asymptomatic and also common in TMJ images. Although most of the calcifications require no treatment, correct identification will reduce further diagnostic assessments. Incidental findings on TMJ images were rare, while examining images for temporomandibular disorders and associated issues, it is important not only to examine the TMJ structures but also to look at the nearby anatomical features to check for evidence of incidental findings pathologies that may have mimicked signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders.

Diagnosis of a maxillary sinus fungus ball without intralesional hyperdensity on computed tomography

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Maxillary sinus fungus ball (MSFB) is the most common type of noninvasive fungal rhinosinusitis. Surgical removal of the ball achieves good outcomes. Making a rapid and accurate diagnosis is important to avoid unnecessary medical therapy. Intralesional hyperdensity (IH) on computed tomography (CT) is reportedly a good indicator. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic features of MSFB without IH on preoperative CT images.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective database review.

METHODS

Two hundred fifty-eight patients with histopathological evidence of a sinus fungal ball were retrospectively investigated. Forty-seven of 222 patients with MSFB did not show IH on preoperative CT images and were enrolled in the MSFB group. Forty-one patients with unilateral nonfungal chronic rhinosinusitis were enrolled in a control group. CT features previously reported to have diagnostic significance were evaluated.

RESULTS

Sclerosis of the lateral sinus wall, erosion of the inner sinus wall, and irregular surface of the material were significantly more common in the MSFB group than in the control group. In the subgroup of patients with total opacification in the maxillary sinus, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for erosion of the inner sinus wall were more than 90%. In the subgroup with partial opacification, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of an irregular surface of the material were more than 80%.

CONCLUSIONS

We have devised an algorithm to help diagnose MSFB without IH on preoperative CT images. Use of this algorithm would improve the diagnostic accuracy and ensure appropriate treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 129:1041-1045, 2019.

Charcot-Leyden Crystals Activate the NLRP3 Inflammasome and Cause IL-1β Inflammation in Human Macrophages

Charcot-Leyden crystals (CLCs) are Galectin-10 protein crystals that can form after eosinophils degranulate. CLCs can appear and persist in tissues from patients with eosinophilic disorders, such as asthma, allergic reactions, and fungal and helminthic infections. Despite abundant reports of their occurrence in human disease, the inflammatory potential of CLCs has remained unknown. In this article, we show that CLCs induce the release of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β upon their phagocytosis by primary human macrophages in vitro. Chemical inhibition and small interfering RNA knockdown of NLRP3 in primary human macrophages abrogated their IL-1β response to CLCs. Using C57BL/6 ASC-mCitrine transgenic inflammasome reporter mice, we showed that the instillation of CLCs into the lungs promoted the assembly of ASC complexes in infiltrating immune cells (neutrophils and inflammatory monocytes) and resulted in IL-1β accumulation into the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Our findings reveal that CLCs are recognized by the NLRP3 inflammasome, which may sustain inflammation that follows eosinophilic inflammatory processes.

Entities of Chronic and Granulomatous Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis: Separate or Not?

Background

Chronic and granulomatous invasive fungal rhinosinusitis are important causes of blindness and craniocerebral complications. However, the classification of these 2 diseases remains controversial.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients with chronic and granulomatous invasive fungal rhinosinusitus in a Chinese tertiary hospital from 2009 to 2017, with a focus on classification and comparisons.

Results

Among 55 patients enrolled in our study, 11 (11/55, 20%) had granulomatous invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (GIFRS) and 44 (44/55, 80%) had chronic invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (CIFRS). Aspergillus fumigatus and Dematiaceous hyphomycetes were identified in 2 patients with GIFRS. Compared with granulomatous type, CIFRS was more frequently encountered in immunocompromised patients (P = .022), and the time from onset to diagnosis was much shorter (P = .001). Proptosis and orbital apex syndrome showed no significant difference between granulomatous and CIFRS in our study. The treatment options and prognosis of both diseases also showed no significant difference.

Conclusions

Despite the consensus on histopathology, the classification of the chronic and granulomatous types may need further evaluation in clinical considerations.

Headache Secondary to Isolated Sphenoid Sinus Fungus Ball: Retrospective Analysis of 6 Cases First Diagnosed in the Neurology Department

Fungal sphenoid sinusitis is easily misdiagnosed in clinic, particularly for patients with normal immunological status. Due to the anatomic characteristics of sphenoid sinus, patients presented with various nonspecific symptoms and complications. Headache is the most common presentation, but location of headache is not fixed. We intended to analyze 6 cases of headache secondary to the isolated sphenoid sinus fungus ball (SSFB) which were first diagnosed in the Neurology Department. There was significant female predominance with mean ages of 55 years. They had repeatedly headache history from months to years. The headache was unilateral and usually on the side of lesions. Medication of pain relievers worked well in the beginning of SSFB, but not in the late stage of disease. Notably, all patients did not present positive nervous systemic signs. A preoperative computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated the inflammation in sphenoid sinus. Some cases showed calcification in soft tissue or bone lesions of sinus wall. All of 6 patients undertook transnasal endoscopic sphenoidotomy without antifungal therapy after operation. Characteristic fungus ball (FB) was detected after histopathological examination. No headache recurrence was found after average 15.5 months follow-up. Our results suggested that transnasal endoscopic sphenoidotomy is the treatment of choice to remove the FB in sphenoid sinus with a low rate of morbidity and recurrence.

Characteristics of Sinus Fungus Ball: A Unique Form of Rhinosinusitis

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of this unique form of rhinosinusitis.

Methods:

Ninety-one patients with sinus fungus balls were evaluated for clinical characteristics. Nasal tissues obtained from 38 patients with sinus fungus ball, along with 26 controls were used for histopathological, cytokines/chemokines, western blotting, and genetic analyses.

Results:

Patients with fungus balls had significantly more females and their age was older. The presentation of fungus ball was predominantly unilateral (97.8%). Thirty-three patients (36.3%) had risk factors for fungal infection. Macrophage and neutrophil dominated cellular infiltration was found in nasal tissues of fungus ball patients. A tendency of reduced tight junction staining (e-cadherin) and protein expression was found. Interleukin 8 (IL8) and granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) significantly increased in sinus fungus ball tissue homogenates when compared with those from controls. Higher prevalence of a single single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) with E-cadherin was found in the patients with fungus ball.

Conclusions:

We found that patients with sinus fungus ball had robust immune responses, allowing recruitment and activation of macrophages and neutrophils. However, patients with sinus fungus ball could have genetic or acquired weakness in immunity. The fungal hyphae were localized and accumulated within single sinus instead of being eradicated by host.

Retrobulbar optic neuropathy associated with sphenoid sinus mucormycosis

Because fungi usually spread from the paranasal sinuses to the orbital apex in invasive fungal sinusitis (IFS), IFS often presents as an orbital apex syndrome (OAS) characterized by dysfunction of cranial nerves II, III, IV, V1, and VI. We report a case of sphenoid sinus mucormycosis that presented as isolated retrobulbar optic neuropathy. A 94-year-old woman presented with acute blindness in the right eye. Examination revealed the absence of light perception and pupillary reflex in the right eye. Head MRI showed a mass in the right sphenoid sinus, which was contiguous with the right optic nerve. She underwent endoscopic surgery, and a histopathological diagnosis of mucormycosis was established. Treatment with intravenous liposomal amphotericin B reduced the size of the mass. She has survived for more than 1 year without recurrence. Clinicians should consider that IFS can present as isolated retrobulbar optic neuropathy.

[Histopathological Diagnosis of Fungal Sinusitis and Variety of its Etiologic Fungus]

 Fungal sinusitis is divided into two categories depending on mucosal invasion by fungus, i.e., invasive and noninvasive. Invasive fungal sinusitis is further divided into acute and chronic disease based on time course. Noninvasive fungal sinusitis includes chronic noninvasive sinusitis (fungal ball type) and allergic fungal sinusitis. Chronic noninvasive sinusitis is the most predominant fungal sinusitis in Japan, followed by allergic fungal sinusitis. Invasive fungal sinusitis is rare. Hyphal tissue invasion is seen in invasive fungal sinusitis. Acute invasive fungal sinusitis demonstrates hyphal vascular invasion while chronic invasive fungal sinusitis usually does not. Fungal tissue invasion is never found in noninvasive sinusitis. A fungal ball may exist adjacent to sinus mucosa, but its hyphae never invade the mucosa. Fungal balls sometimes contain conidial heads and calcium oxalate, which aid in identifying the fungus in the tissue. Allergic fungal sinusitis is characterized by allergic mucin that is admixed with numerous eosinophils and sparsely scattered fungal elements. Histopathology is important in classifying fungal sinusitis, especially in confirming tissue invasion by the fungus.

Chronic Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis: Two New Cases and Review of the Literature

Background

Chronic invasive fungal rhinosinusitis is rare in the immunocompetent patient. Few cases have been published except for in a specific geographic area (Sudan, India).

Methods and Results

We reported two new cases of chronic invasive fungal rhinosinusitis due to Aspergillus, which was successfully treated, to analyze the different clinical, radiological, and mycological criteria.

Conclusion

Through these two new clinical cases and the analysis of the literature, we suggested, in the absence of general agreement on the surgical and medical management, the current strategies available for this rare pathology. New antifungal drugs seem to be an efficient alternative to classic antifungal agents, especially those that require an extended course of oral therapy for the chronic invasive form.

Primary Paranasal Aspergillus Granuloma: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Background

Primary paranasal aspergillus granuloma (PPAG) is a slowly progressive chronic infection of the sinus extending beyond the confines of the sinus. It has been reported only in patients from the Sudan and India. Microscopically, it differs from chronic invasive fungal sinusitis in that there are pseudotubercles containing giant cells, histiocytes, lymphocytes, plasma cells, newly formed capillaries, eosinophils, and Aspergillus fungal elements.

Conclusion

We describe the first case of PPAG in the United States in an immunocompetent nonatopic woman who had never left Missouri.

Fungal DNA is Present in Tissue Specimens of Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Background

It has been postulated that fungal organisms might represent the immunologic target initiating and maintaining the disease process in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The presence of fungi in nasal mucus has been established by different groups, but so far it has not been shown how the immune system could even recognize such extramucosal—extracorporal—fungal targets. The aim of this study was to determine whether fungal DNA is present in tissue specimens taken from patients with polypoid CRS.

Methods

Twenty-seven surgical specimens were collected from patients suffering from CRS. Fifteen surgical specimens from healthy ethmoidal mucosa served as controls. A second set of controls consisted of five surgical specimens of acoustic neuroma, which were included to rule out contamination within the protocol. All paranasal tissue samples were treated and rinsed carefully with a solution of Dithiothreitol to digest any nasal mucus and ensure that only tissue was examined. A highly sensitive two-step polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was applied to detect fungal DNA, using one universal primer for unspecific detection of fungal DNA and a second primer pair specific for Alternaria.

Results

Fungal DNA was detected in all 27 CRS specimens equally with both PCR primers. Controls from healthy paranasal mucosa were positive using the panfungal primers in 10 of 15 cases but were all negative for Alternaria DNA. PCR was negative for fungal DNA in all five neuroma specimens.

Conclusions

Fungal DNA can be detected within sinonasal tissue specimens of patients suffering from CRS. These findings need to be discussed with respect to the proposed hypothesis of the immune system recognizing extramucosal organisms and initiating an immune response in sensitized patients.

Acute Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis in Immunocompromised Patients: Role of an Early Diagnosis

Objective

The aims of the present study were to evaluate the clinical significance of the delay for surgical treatment and the prognostic value of other clinical, pathologic, and microbiological variables among hematologic patients affected by acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFRS). Furthermore, we propose our early diagnosis and treatment protocol, reporting its 10-year results.

Study Design

Monocentric retrospective analysis.

Setting

The study was conducted from 2001 to 2017 at the University Hospital of Bologna, Italy.

Subjects and Methods

The impact of time to treatment and clinical, pathologic, and microbiological variables were analyzed among patients with histologically and microbiologically proven AIFRS. The outcomes of patients treated before the introduction of the early diagnosis protocol were compared with those treated afterward.

Results

Nineteen patients affected by AIFRS were eligible for the study. Treatment delay >4 days ( P = .002), infection caused by Mucorales ( P = .015), and extension of the disease were negative prognostic variables ( P = .017). The application of our protocol significantly reduced the delay for diagnosis and appropriate treatment by an average of 7.3 days ( P = .02).

Conclusion

The promptness of the diagnosis and surgical treatment may play a significant role in the management of AIFRS, as it appears to be significantly associated with the disease outcome. Our protocol may help to reduce the time required for diagnosis of high-risk hematologic patients.

Orbital Apex Lesions: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge

Objective  To analyze the clinical characteristics of and treatment outcomes for orbital apex lesions according to their pathological diagnosis and identify clinical characteristics that could aid in their differential diagnosis. Design  Retrospective analysis design was used for this study. Setting  The study was conducted in a single tertiary institution. Participants  Patients with pathologically confirmed lesions centered in the orbital apex who were admitted between January 2011 and December 2015. Main Outcome Measures  Clinical characteristics, including demographics, predisposing factors, presenting symptoms, radiological findings, intraoperative findings, biopsy results, and treatment outcomes. Results  Nine patients with invasive fungal sinusitis, six with inflammatory pseudotumor, and six with neoplastic or tumorous lesions were enrolled. The most common presenting symptom was orbital pain or headache, followed by ophthalmoplegia and vision loss, which exhibited overall recovery rates of 62.5% and 33.3%, respectively, after definitive treatment. The prognosis was worse for patients with invasive fungal sinusitis. There was no significant difference in age, underlying medical conditions, absolute neutrophil count, C-reactive protein level, and radiological findings among the three groups. Grossly necrotic tissues around the orbital apex area at biopsy were more frequently found in patients with invasive fungal sinusitis than in the other patients. In most cases, pain ameliorated after surgical intervention. There were no surgery-related morbidities. Conclusions  Lesions centered in the orbital apex included invasive fungal sinusitis, inflammatory pseudotumor, and tumorous lesions. However, clinical features that clearly differentiated chronic invasive fungal sinusitis from inflammatory pseudotumor could not be identified. Our findings suggest that prompt biopsy is warranted for timely diagnosis, symptom relief, and early implementation of definitive treatment.

Fungal Microbiota in Chronic Airway Inflammatory Disease and Emerging Relationships with the Host Immune Response

The respiratory tract is a complex system that is inhabited by niche-specific communities of microbes including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These complex microbial assemblages are in constant contact with the mucosal immune system and play a critical role in airway health and immune homeostasis. Changes in the composition and diversity of airway microbiota are frequently observed in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases including chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), cystic fibrosis, allergy, and asthma. While the bacterial microbiome of the upper and lower airways has been the focus of many recent studies, the contribution of fungal microbiota to inflammation is an emerging research interest. Within the context of allergic airway disease, fungal products are important allergens and fungi are potent inducers of inflammation. In addition, murine models have provided experimental evidence that fungal microbiota in peripheral organs, notably the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, influence pulmonary health. In this review, we explore the role of the respiratory and GI microbial communities in chronic airway inflammatory disease development with a specific focus on fungal microbiome interactions with the airway immune system and fungal-bacterial interactions that likely contribute to inflammatory disease. These findings are discussed in the context of clinical and immunological features of fungal-mediated disease in CRS, allergy, and asthmatic patients. While this field is still nascent, emerging evidence suggests that dysbiotic fungal and bacterial microbiota interact to drive or exacerbate chronic airway inflammatory disease.

Efficacy of nasal irrigation with 200 μg/mL amphotericin B after functional endoscopic sinus surgery: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown controversial results of topical amphotericin B (AMB) nasal irrigation for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of 200 μg/mL AMB nasal irrigation as an adjuvant therapy after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).

METHODS

Patients with CRS who had received FESS for treatment were recruited and assigned to 1 of 2 groups at random at 1 month postsurgery. In the AMB group patients received nasal irrigation with 200 μg/mL of AMB for 2 months on a daily basis. In the control group normal saline irrigation was given instead. Before FESS and before and after nasal irrigation, patients' sinonasal symptoms were assessed through a questionnaire that was a Taiwanese version of the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (TWSNOT-22). In addition, patients received endoscopic examination, acoustic rhinometry, smell test, saccharine transit test, and bacterial cultures obtained from their middle meati.

RESULTS

A total of 73 patients completed the study between December 2014 and January 2017. Among them, 37 received nasal irrigation with AMB solution, and 36 with saline. In the AMB group, scores of TWSNOT-22 dropped significantly after irrigation compared with before (p = 0.005). In the control group, TWSNOT-22 scores did not changed after irrigation (p = 0.451). However, there were no significant differences in TWSNOT-22, endoscopic score, smell test, saccharine transit test, and bacterial culture rate after irrigation between 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that in post-FESS care, nasal irrigation with 200 μg/mL of AMB did not provide additional benefit compared with saline irrigation.

Fast-track development of an in vitro 3D lung/immune cell model to study Aspergillus infections

To study interactions of airborne pathogens, e.g. Aspergillus (A.) fumigatus with upper and lower respiratory tract epithelial and immune cells, we set up a perfused 3D human bronchial and small airway epithelial cell system. Culturing of normal human bronchial or small airway epithelial (NHBE, SAE) cells under air liquid interphase (ALI) and perfusion resulted in a significantly accelerated development of the lung epithelia associated with higher ciliogenesis, cilia movement, mucus-production and improved barrier function compared to growth under static conditions. Following the accelerated differentiation under perfusion, epithelial cells were transferred into static conditions and antigen-presenting cells (APCs) added to study their functionality upon infection with A. fumigatus. Fungi were efficiently sensed by apically applied macrophages or basolaterally adhered dendritic cells (DCs), as illustrated by phagocytosis, maturation and migration characteristics. We illustrate here that perfusion greatly improves differentiation of primary epithelial cells in vitro, which enables fast-track addition of primary immune cells and significant shortening of experimental procedures. Additionally, co-cultured primary DCs and macrophages were fully functional and fulfilled their tasks of sensing and sampling fungal pathogens present at the apical surface of epithelial cells, thereby promoting novel possibilities to study airborne infections under conditions mimicking the in vivo situation.

Identification of fungal causative agents of rhinosinusitis from Mashhad, Iran

Background and Purpose:

Rhinosinusitis is a common disorder, influencing approximately 20% of the population at some time of their lives. It was recognized and reported with expanding recurrence over the past two decades worldwide. Undoubtedly, correct diagnosis of fungi in patients with fungal rhinosinusitis affects the treatment planning and prognosis of the patients. Identification of the causative agents using the standard mycological procedures remains difficult and time-consuming.

Materials and Methods:

Based on clinical and radiological parameters, 106 patients suspected of fungal rhinosinusitis were investigated in this cross-sectional prospective study from April 2012 to March 2016 at an otorhinolaryngology department. In this study, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and calmodulin (CaM) sequencing were respectively validated as reliable techniques for the identification of Mucorales and Aspergillus to species level (both agents of fungal rhinosinusitis).

Results:

Of these, 63 (59.4%) patients were suspected of allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS), 40 (37.7%) patients suspected of acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFRS), and 3 (2.8%) patients suspected of mycetoma. In patients suspected of AFRS, AIFRS, and mycetoma only 7, 29, and 1 had positive fungal culture, respectively. After ITS and CaM sequencing, Aspergillus flavus was the most common species isolated from non-invasive forms, and A. flavus and Rhizopus oryzae were more frequently isolated from invasive forms.

Conclusion:

Aspergillus flavus is the most common agent of fungal rhinosinusitis in Iran, unlike most other reports from throughout the world stating that A. fumigatus is the most frequent causative agent of this disease.

[Fungal sinusitis]

Although sinusitis affects about 20 % of the population, fungal sinusitis is rare. Aspergillus sp. are most frequently implicated. Fungal sinusitis represents a wide spectrum of disorders, including acute or chronic and invasive or non-invasive forms. Invasive fungal sinusitis may develop in an immunocompromised or diabetic patient, whereas non-invasive fungal sinusitis should be considered in a chronic situation, resistant to antibiotics in immunocompetent patients. Allergic fungal sinusitis is related to hypersensitivity of the host to the fungus. The diagnosis of these infections requires radiological examination and endoscopy with mucosal biopsies examined histologically and mycologically in order to distinguish the different types of sinusitis. In the non-invasive forms, surgical treatment is essential, sometimes combined with antifungal and anti-inflammatory treatment. The invasive forms require antifungal treatment, combined with surgery in some forms, particularly mucormycosis.

Fungal Rhinosinusitis: A Radiological Review with Intraoperative Correlation

The interaction between fungi and the sinonasal tract results in a range of clinical presentations with a broad spectrum of clinical severity. The most commonly accepted classification system divides fungal rhinosinusitis into invasive and noninvasive subtypes based on histopathological evidence of tissue invasion by fungi. Invasive fungal rhinosinusitis is subdivided into acute invasive and chronic invasive categories. The chronic invasive category includes a subcategory of chronic granulomatous disease. Noninvasive fungal disease includes localized fungal colonization, fungal ball, and allergic fungal rhinosinusitis. Noninvasive disease is simply fungal material (or the products of the inflammatory reaction of the sinus mucosa) that fills the sinuses but does not invade tissue. Bone loss is related to expansion of the sinus(es). Invasive disease causes tissue destruction, such that it expands past the bony confines of the sinuses. It can rapidly spread, causing acute necrosis. Alternatively, there may be slow tissue invasion characterized by symptoms confused with normal sinusitis, but destruction of normal nasal and paranasal structures.

Nontraumatic head and neck injuries: a clinical approach. Part 2

Nontraumatic emergencies of the head and neck represent a challenge in the field of neuroradiology for two reasons. As explained in the first part of this update, these entities affect an area where the thorax joins the cranial cavity and can thus compromise both structures; second, they are uncommon, so they are not well known. Maintaining the same approach as in the first part, focusing on the clinical presentations in the emergency department rather than on the anatomic regions affected, we will study the entities that present with two patterns: those that present with a combination of cervical numbness, dysphagia, and dyspnea and those that present with acute sensory deficits. In the latter group, we will specifically focus on visual deficits, because this is the most common symptom that calls for urgent imaging studies.

Maxillary sinus volume: new physiopathological data in fungal ball genesis? A retrospective study

OBJECTIVES

The goal of this study was to compare maxillary sinus (MS) volume in patients with, or without, maxillary fungal ball.

DESIGN

Monocentric retrospective study performed on 115 patient CT scans.

SETTINGS

We defined two groups of patients according to the absence (control group) or the presence (fungal ball group) of unilateral fungal ball in the MS. Sinus 3D reconstruction was created from CT scan.

PARTICIPANTS

Control group: 71 patients (36 women - 50.7%); mean age was 51 years. Fungal ball group: 44 patients (29 women - 65.9%); mean age was 54.5 years.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The univariate association between MS volume and sinus covariates was tested by anova. Multivariate analysis was made including all variables statistically significant in univariate analysis.

RESULTS

In the control group, mean MS volume was 14 766 mm³ . The volumes of the two MSs were not statistically different in the control group (P = 0.145). In the fungal ball group, mean MS volume was 15 982 mm³ . Fungal ball was found in the smallest MS in 41 of 44 cases. Univariate analysis showed a statistical difference between the pathological and the non-pathological MS volumes (P < 10^-4 ). Multivariate analysis confirmed the correlation between MS volume and the presence of a fungal ball (P < 10^-4 ).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that maxillary fungal ball is associated with a smaller size of the affected MS.

Slowly progressive invasive rhino-orbito-cerebral aspergillosis: case report and literature review

This is a report of a patient with aspergillosis infection, which was thought to be a tumoral lesion during its investigation. This is not a common disease in Western countries, and this report should increase our awareness for differential diagnosis of nasal masses. Early diagnosis is desired in order to increase the survival rates.

Allergic Aspergillus Rhinosinusitis

Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) is a unique variety of chronic polypoid rhinosinusitis usually in atopic individuals, characterized by presence of eosinophilic mucin and fungal hyphae in paranasal sinuses without invasion into surrounding mucosa. It has emerged as an important disease involving a large population across the world with geographic variation in incidence and epidemiology. The disease is surrounded by controversies regarding its definition and etiopathogenesis. A working group on "Fungal Sinusitis" under the International Society for Human and Animal Mycology (ISHAM) addressed some of those issues, but many questions remain unanswered. The descriptions of "eosinophilic fungal rhinosinusitis" (EFRS), "eosinophilic mucin rhinosinusitis" (EMRS) and mucosal invasion by hyphae in few patients have increased the problem to delineate the disease. Various hypotheses exist for etiopathogenesis of AFRS with considerable overlap, though recent extensive studies have made certain in depth understanding. The diagnosis of AFRS is a multi-disciplinary approach including the imaging, histopathology, mycology and immunological investigations. Though there is no uniform management protocol for AFRS, surgical clearing of the sinuses with steroid therapy are commonly practiced. The role of antifungal agents, leukotriene antagonists and immunomodulators is still questionable. The present review covers the controversies, recent advances in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of AFRS.

Etiology of Chronic Rhinosinusitis: The Role of Fungus

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a multifactorial disease. Predisposing factors can be divided into environmental and non-host factors, such as pollution, viral infections, smoking, fungus, and bacteria; general host factors, including genetic factors and immune deficiency; and local host factors, including persistent focal inflammation within the ostiomeatal complex. Evidence suggests that the underlying bone in the ostiomeatal complex is actively involved in the disease process of CRS. The evidence concerning a broad range of predisposing factors for CRS is reviewed. Chronic rhinosinusitis is an inflammatory disorder with numerous predisposing factors, including genetics, pollution, anatomic anomalies, bacteria, and fungus. In some studies, fungi have been cultured from nearly 100% of patients with rhinosinusitis and nasal polyposis. T-cell sensitization to fungus with production of the T-helper 2 (Th2) cytokine interleukin-5 has been proposed as a key step in the initiation of the disease. Interleukin-5 also plays an important role in the effector phase of the disease through its effects on eosinophilopoesis and eosinophil survival. There is considerable controversy concerning the role of fungi as the cause of “chronic eosinophilic rhinosinusitis” and whether this even represents a distinct clinical entity. Further study is also required to define the optimal treatment for the disease.

Chronic sphenoid rhinosinusitis: management challenge

Chronic sphenoid rhinosinusitis is a spectrum of inflammatory diseases in isolated sphenoid sinus which may persist over a period of 12 weeks. It is a different entity from other types of rhinosinusitis because clinical presentations include headache, visual loss or diplopia, and patients may or may not have nasal obstruction or nasal discharge. Nasal endoscopic examination is useful, and computed tomography is mandatory. The disease requires comprehensive knowledge and appropriate imaging technique for diagnosis. To treat patients with chronic sphenoid rhinosinusitis, surgical treatment with endoscopic transnasal sphenoidotomy is often required. As there are no recent updated reviews of chronic sphenoid rhinosinusitis, in this article, we review the anatomy of the sphenoid sinus and its clinical relationship with the clinical signs and symptoms of the disease, the imaging findings of each diagnosis and the comprehensive surgical techniques.

Invasive Fungal Sinusitis by Lasiodiplodia theobromae in an Patient with Aplastic Anemia: An Extremely Rare Case Report and Literature Review

Human Lasiodiplodia theobromae infection has not been reported frequently. We report the first case of invasive L. theobromae nasal and neck infection. A 66-year-old male visited our hospital with anemia and general weakness. He showed pancytopenia, and his bone marrow examination revealed markedly decreased hematopoietic cells. The patient was presumed to have iatrogenic aplastic anemia due to mushroom toxicity. He began treatment for multiple organ infections with broad-spectrum antibiotics and antifungal agents. During hospitalization, he complained of nasal obstruction and left neck lymph node enlargement. A mass-like lesion was observed, and a nasal mass biopsy was performed. The mass was identified as a fungal ball. He underwent surgical excision for the nasal mass and the neck lymph node. The pathologic examination indicated an invasive fungal infection, and the lymph node revealed chronic granulomatous inflammation with fungal infection. 18s rRNA sequencing revealed that the sequence shared 99 % identity with L. theobromae. The nasal mass fungus was identified by internal transcribed spacer region sequencing from pathologic paraffin sections. The obtained sequence corresponded to Lasiodiplodia or Macrophoma. The sequence corresponded to the neck discharge sequence results. Hence, the patient was diagnosed with invasive fungal sinusitis with neck lymph node involvement caused by L. theobromae. To our knowledge, this is the first report of L. theobromae infection in Korea and the first report of invasive L. theobromae fungal sinusitis in the literature. We should include more precise evaluations of additional novel fungal species as possible candidates.