The spectrum of orbital aspergillosis: a clinicopathological review

A case of necrotizing fasciitis of the orbit secondary to Aspergillus fumigatus and mixed flora

A 79-year-old female presented to the emergency department for sudden-onset ocular pain, edema, and erythema around her left eye. She also had a left-sided migraine and frontal fullness for 2 weeks. She had attentive care for the diagnosis of orbital cellulitis and prompt recognition of necrotizing fasciitis. Wound cultures were positive for over 5 strains of bacteria in addition to Aspergillus. In a combined effort by our institution's Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology departments, the patient was successfully treated with debridement, porcine bladder matrix, antibiotics, and antifungals. The authors describe the first reported case of eyelid and periorbital necrotizing fasciitis, caused by mixed flora and Aspergillus fumigatus, that showed promising wound healing with the outlined treatment paradigm.

Orbital aspergillosis in an immunocompromised man with no history of trauma: a case report

Fungal orbital cellulitis is usually seen in immunocompromised individuals, and opportunistic pathogens are the main etiology. We herein report a case of fungal orbital cellulitis due to Aspergillus in a patient with no history of trauma. A 48-year-old man presented to the emergency room of our hospital with a 2-week history of periorbital swelling, conjunctival hyperemia, and chemosis of his right eye. The visual acuity of his right eye was 6/20, and the intraocular pressure was 44 mmHg. The main clinical findings were proptosis of the right ocular globe with conjunctival hyperemia and a palpable infratemporal orbital mass. Laboratory testing failed to detect the presence of a pathogenic infection, and the lesions on computed tomography images resembled those of a malignant tumor of the orbit. The diagnosis was finally confirmed by postoperative pathological examination, and the patient responded favorably to debridement combined with antifungal therapy. Histopathological examination may help to reveal the nature of this disease. Surgical removal of inflammatory lesions can serve as an important diagnostic and treatment method for fungal orbital cellulitis.

Orbital floor defect caused by invasive aspergillosis: a case report and literature review

Fungal sinusitis is relatively rare, but it has become more common in recent years. When fungal sinusitis invades the orbit, it can cause proptosis, chemosis, ophthalmoplegia, retroorbital pain, and vision impairment. We present a case of an extensive orbital floor defect due to invasive fungal sinusitis. A 62-year-old man with hypertension and a history of lung adenocarcinoma, presented with right-side facial pain and swelling. On admission, the serum glucose level was 347 mg/dL, and hemoglobin A1c was 11.4%. A computed tomography scan and a Waters' view X-ray showed right maxillary sinusitis with an orbital floor defect. On hospital day 3, functional endoscopic sinus surgery was performed by the otorhinolaryngology team, and an aspergilloma in necrotic inflammatory exudate obtained during exploration. On hospital day 7, orbital floor reconstruction with a Medpor Titan surgical implant was done. In principle, the management of invasive sino- orbital fungal infection often begins with surgical debridement and local irrigation with an antifungal agent. Exceptionally, in this case, debridement and immediate orbital floor reconstruction were performed to prevent enophthalmos caused by the extensive orbital floor defect. The patient underwent orbital floor reconstruction and received intravenous and oral voriconazole. Despite orbital invasion, there were no ophthalmic symptoms or sequelae.

Orbital Infiltration in a Patient with Waldenström Macroglobulinemia: Need for Multidisciplinary Approach and Comparison with the Literature

The use of specific inhibitory drugs of intracellular signalling pathways (such as Bruton-Kinase inhibitors) for the treatment of Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia (WM) is a recognised risk factor for Aspergillus spp. infections. The overlapping clinical manifestations of the two diseases may require the involvement of different medical specialities. We describe the clinical course of a patient with pulmonary and encephalic aspergillosis, with concomitant orbital infiltration, which represented a difficult diagnosis: the case required a multidisciplinary approach to define the ocular lesions and an in-depth study of the literature.

Orbital Complications of Acute Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis: A New Challenge in the COVID-19 Convalescent Patients

Purpose

Increased incidence of acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFR) in the setting of COVID-19 is undeniable. This can be attributed to its effect on innate immunity and extensive use of corticosteroids. The goal of our study was to assess the orbital complications of AIFR and its management in the COVID-19 convalescent patients.

Methods

Our longitudinal prospective study included 45 patients with orbital complications of AIFR in recently recovered COVID-19 patients. We performed otorhinolaryngological, ophthalmological, and neurological examinations to monitor the manifestations of the disease. Computed tomography and contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging were performed to detect the extent of infection. Antifungal medications, surgical intervention, and general condition management were all provided to all the patients.

Results

We reported pre-septal cellulitis, orbital cellulitis, and orbital apex syndrome in 18, 13, and 10 patients, respectively. Four patients had cavernous sinus thrombosis. Mucormycosis and Aspergillus species were detected in 80% and 11.11% of our patients, respectively, while the mixed infection was found in 8.88% of our patients. Diabetes mellitus was the most common cause of immunocompromise (95.55% of our patients). Orbital pain and ophthalmoplegia were the most common ocular manifestations, followed by proptosis and relative afferent pupillary defect. All patients underwent surgical intervention, except for one patient who was unfit for surgery. One patient had orbital exenteration. The ophthalmological manifestations were reversible in cases of orbital and pre-septal cellulitis. The overall survival rate was 66.67%.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis and treatment of AIFR can decrease the morbidity and mortality rate of affected patients.

Sino-Orbital Aspergillosis in a Kidney Transplant Recipient

Sino-orbital aspergillosis is a rare and severe infection mostly seen in immunocompromised individuals in which diagnosis may be challenging with potentially life-threatening consequences. Infection usually starts in the paranasal sinuses with secondary spreading to the adjacent orbits. Here, we report the case of a kidney transplant recipient who presented with proven invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis resulting in irreversible loss of vision despite surgical management and antifungal therapy. We review the literature with a focus on clinical presentation, diagnostic tools, and recommended treatment in the context of kidney transplantation.

Fungi of the human eye: Culture to mycobiome

The focus of the current review is multi-fold and compares the diversity and abundance of fungi on the ocular surface by the conventional culture-based method with the more sensitive, high throughput, culture-independent NGS method. The aim is to highlight the existence of a core ocular mycobiome and explore the transition of the ocular fungal microbiota from the normal eye to the diseased eye. PubMed, Google Scholar and Medline were used to search for publications and reviews related to cultivable fungi and the mycobiome of the normal and diseased eye. The conventional cultivable approach and the NGS approach confirm that the eye has its own mycobiome and several confounding factors (age, gender, ethnicity etc.) influence the mycobiome. Further, dysbiosis in the mycobiome appears to be associated with ocular diseases and thus impacts the health of the human eye. Considering that the mycobiome of the eye is influenced by several confounding factors and also varies with respect to the disease status of the eye there is a need to extensively explore the mycobiome under different physiological conditions, different ethnicities, geographical regions etc. Such studies would unravel the diversity and abundance of the mycobiomes and contribute to our understanding of ocular health. Research focused on ocular mycobiomes may eventually help to build a targeted and individualized treatment.

Frontal sinus infection leading to sino-orbital aspergillosis: a case report

Sino-orbital aspergillosis is an uncommon but aggressive infection. It rarely originates from the frontal sinus due to the complex anatomy of the frontal recess and anteromedial position of its ostium. An 87-year-old man of Nigerian heritage with a history of multiple myeloma, chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes, presented to the eye clinic with a right tense swollen eyelid and proptosis. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan revealed a right superomedial mass communicating with the frontal sinus and biopsy confirmed an orbital aspergilloma. The patient was successfully treated with debulking surgery and anti-fungal treatment despite developing side effects to the drugs. To improve prognosis, ophthalmologists should be aware of this distinct entity and use a multi-disciplinary approach.

Invasive Fungal Sinusitis with Ophthalmological Complications: Case Series and Review of the Literature

Invasive fungal sinusitis can lead to dramatic complications in immunocompromised patients and requires prompt diagnosis. Here we report three cases with ophthalmological complications secondary to invasive fungal sinusitis in immunocompromised patients. From an ophthalmological point of view, these cases illustrate different clinical presentations, evolutions, complications, treatments, prognoses, and highlight different pathophysiological mechanisms. Diagnoses were delayed in all cases. In none of the cases did patients recover better vision than counting fingers at 24 months follow up, and two patients died. This case series highlights key points useful for quickly recognising this highly morbid infection in immunocompromised patients.

Fungal Keratitis in Northern Thailand: Spectrum of Agents, Risk Factors and Putative Virulence Factors

Fungal keratitis (FK) is a serious ocular infection that can result in various degrees of vision loss, including blindness. The aim of the study was to identify and retrospectively review all FK cases diagnosed between August 2012 and December 2020 at a tertiary care hospital in northern Thailand with a specific focus on epidemiologic features, including season, patient sex and age, the spectrum of pathogens, and presence of certain putative virulence factors. Of 1237 patients with corneal ulcers, 294 (23.8%) were confirmed by direct microscopic examination and/or fungal culture. For the positive cases, direct examinations of Calcofluor white (CW) stains and KOH mounts were found in 97.3% (286/294) and 76.5% (225/294), respectively (p < 0.05). Of the cases diagnosed by microscopy and culture, fungi were isolated in 152 (51.7%), with Fusarium spp. being the most frequently identified (n = 69, 45.5%) followed by dematiaceous fungi (n = 45, 29.6%) and Aspergillus spp. (n = 18, 11.8%). The incidence of FK was higher in the rainy season of July to October. The mean age was 54.4 ± 14.4 (SD) years, with a range of 9–88 years. Males (75.8%) were affected significantly more than females (24.2%) (p < 0.05). Of 294 patients, 132 (44.9%) were middle-aged adults (41–60 years) and 107 (36.4%) were older than 60 years. Trauma to the eye by soil or vegetative matter were the most common preceding factors (188/294; 64.0%). We assessed two virulence factors. First, 142 of the 152 culture-positive FK cases were due to molds, indicating that hyphal morphogenesis is extremely important in disease. We also demonstrated that fungal melanization occurs in the molds during the course of FK by applying a melanin-specific monoclonal antibody (MAb) that labeled fungal elements in corneal samples of patients, and melanin particles derived from the hyphae were also recovered after treatment of the samples with proteolytic enzymes, denaturant and hot concentrated acid. In summary, we demonstrate that northern Thailand has a high rate of FK that is influenced by season and males engaged in outside activities are at highest risk for disease. Moulds are significantly more commonly responsible for FK, in part due to their capacity to form hyphae and melanins. Future studies will examine models of fungal corneal interactions and assess additional factors of virulence, such as secreted enzymes, to more deeply decipher the pathogenesis of FK.

Rare Diseases of the Orbit

This article provides an overview of rare orbital diseases. Congenital malformations, inflammatory diseases, benign and malignant neoplasias are described. Although it represents a relatively small area of the body the orbit contains multiple different tissues. Therefore, a great variety of diseases can be found within the orbital space. That is the reason, why both the completeness and the level of detail in the description of particular diseases must be somewhat limited. Nevertheless, clinical manifestations, important aspects of diagnosis, treatment strategies, and, when specific data are available, the prognosis are described. The authors tried to highlight the most characteristic aspects of the different diseases to describe their relevant aspects in spite of the brevity of the subsections.

Fungal abscess after intra-orbital steroid injection: a case report

A 28-year-old male presented with gradually progressive swelling of the right lower eyelid along with a prominence of the eye for 6 months. He had received oral steroids and intraorbital triamcinolone acetonide injection in the inferior quadrant for active thyroid eye disease. External examination revealed right eye proptosis and swelling along the inferior orbital region. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an ill-defined soft tissue lesion in the inferior extraconal space and a bulky right inferior rectus. Histopathology of the biopsied material revealed inflammation with septate fungal filaments, identified as Aspergillus flavus on culture. He responded well to oral voriconazole despite a recurrence during the course of treatment. Intraorbital steroids are given for idiopathic and thyroid-associated orbital inflammation. This is a report of a rare complication of fungal orbital abscess following intraorbital corticosteroid injection in an immunocompetent young patient.

Delayed association of acute particulate matter 2.5 air pollution exposure with loss of complexity in cardiac rhythm dynamics: insight from detrended fluctuation analysis

There is a delayed (lag 1 to 2 days) correlation between acute PM 2.5 (particulate matter < 2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter) exposure and cardiovascular events, but the underlying mechanism remained unclear. We aimed to investigate the delayed impact of acute PM 2.5 exposures on cardiac autonomics through linear and nonlinear heart rate variability (HRV) analyses. Among 6912 patients who had received 24-h Holter ECG between October 1, 2015, to October 31, 2016, 56 patients (31 males, 70.3 ± 12.7 years old) were enrolled. We classified the patients as high (> 35.4 μg/m³) or low (< 35.4 μg/m³) PM 2.5 groups according to their PM 2.5 exposures on the day of Holter recordings (day 0) lag 1 and lag 2 days. Linear and nonlinear HRV parameters〔Detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) slopes 1 and 2〕were compared. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Linear and nonlinear HRV parameters were similar between high- and low-exposure groups on day 0 and lag 1 day, respectively. However, DFA slope 1 was significantly lower in the high-exposure group on lag 2 days (0.784 ± 0.201 vs. 0.964 ± 0.274, p = 0.021). DFA slope 1 of the high-exposure group was significantly lower on daytime periods (9 am to 9 pm, 8 am to 4 pm and 4 pm to 12 pm) but not on nighttime periods. High lag 2 days PM 2.5 exposure is associated with low DFA slope 1 and the relationship is diurnal. This suggests that air pollution might have a delayed impact on the cardiovascular autonomic system.

Invasive fungal disease misdiagnosed as tumour in association with orbital apex syndrome

Invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis is a rare cause of orbital apex syndrome (OAS) in immunocompetent patients and often misdiagnosed as tumour because of its aggressive nature and invasive patterns. We report a 23-year-old immunocompetent man presenting with painful progressive loss of vision, ophthalmoplegia and proptosis of the right eye suggestive of OAS. MRI with gadolinium contrast showed an enhancing heterogeneous mass filling the paranasal sinuses, extraconal space and extending up to the right orbital apex. A functional endoscopic biopsy reported as invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis. He was started on intravenous voriconazole and maximal surgical debridement was done. He gradually regained his vision to 20/30 in the right eye. A review of literature reported several such cases which were managed medically or surgically but with poor visual recovery. This case highlights the need for awareness among clinicians for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent vision loss and better survival.

Bilateral cellulitis caused by invasive aspergillosis associated with bilateral intraorbital abscesses: a case report

Background

Orbital invasive aspergillosis infection is rare life-threatening infection, most commonly seen in immunocompromised patients and extremely rare in individuals without risk factors. Here we present a rare case of bilateral cellulitis caused by invasive aspergillosis associated with bilateral intraorbital abscesses in a female patient.

Case presentation

A 49-year-old woman presented with a 3-month history of painful proptosis and periorbital swelling of bilateral eyes. She was initially diagnosed as bilateral orbital cellulitis complicated with cavernous sinus thrombosis and was treated with antibiotic medication for 1 month, but her symptoms persisted. MRI demonstrated orbital masses behind both globes. The lesion in right orbit was biopsied with a diagnosis of orbital granulomatosis with invasive aspergillosis infection. The patient was healed after receiving antifungal treatment.

Conclusions

This is an unusual case about bilateral orbital abscesses with invasive fungal infection. Fungal infection of the orbit should be considered when patient does not respond to combination of anti-inflammatory and antibiotic therapies, even in some cases without any risk factors.

Invasive rhino-orbital-cerebral aspergillosis in an immunocompetent patient

INTRODUCTION

Rhino-orbital-aspergillosis (ROA) is a rare but serious disease in immunocompetent patients. Diagnosis is often delayed due to the absence of specific clinical symptoms. We describe the case of a patient who presented initially with ROA which spread progressively to the right ethmoid-sphenoid sinuses and then to the brain.

OBSERVATION

A 61-year-old patient with a history of well-controlled diabetes presented with a sudden severe decrease in right visual acuity. Cerebral MRI showed the presence of an infiltrate in the right orbital apex extending to the homolateral cavernous sinus without any cerebral involvement. A diagnosis of right orbital myositis was made and corticosteroid therapy was started. His symptoms worsened progressively leading to quasi-blindness. A new MRI showed the development of right sphenoid-ethmoid osteolytic lesions. A fungal aetiology was suspected and tests for fungal biomarkers found a β-(1-3)-D-glucan level of 99pg/ml but negative galactomannan. An ethmoid biopsy was performed for histological and mycological investigations, including the detection of Aspergillus DNA by qPCR. qPCR was positive and culture resulted in the isolation of multi-sensitive Aspergillus fumigatus. Treatment was initiated with voriconazole. Due to persistence of blindness and the appearance of a lesion extending to the right frontal lobe, surgical excision was performed followed by antifungal treatment for a total duration of 1year. The patient is currently stable, but has persistence of blindness in the right eye.

CONCLUSION

Invasive ROA is a rare but serious disease in immunocompetent patients which should be evoked in the differential diagnosis of a tumour or vasculitis. Early diagnosis is essential for optimal management.

Orbital apex syndrome secondary to aspergilloma masquerading as a paranasal sinus tumor: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Orbital apex syndrome is a complex clinical disorder featuring a collection of cranial nerve deficits characterized by impairment of the extraocular muscles, the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve, and even the optic nerve. Sino-orbital aspergillosis is rare but aggressive infection. Surgical resection accompanied by antifungal medication is advised currently.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report a 61-year-old woman diagnosed as aspergilloma presenting with the characteristic manifestations and imaging features of orbital apex syndrome.

DIAGNOSES

Paranasal sinus tumor was misdiagnosed initially according to magnetic resonance imaging of the orbit. Finally aspergilloma was diagnosed by pathologic report.

INTERVENTIONS

The anti-fungal medication, voriconazole, was administered immediately. Surgical excision was also done due to the poor response to medical treatment.

OUTCOMES

Postoperative follow-up showed no recurrence of aspergillosis but the vision was lost permanently.

LESSONS

Invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis as an aggressive disease with highly invasive patterns and it may be misdiagnosed as tumors. To achieve better prognosis and survival, clinicians should be aware of this distinct manifestation.

Rare Orbital Infections ~ State of the Art ~ Part II

Infections of the orbit and periorbita are relatively frequent. Identifying unusual organisms is crucial because they can cause severe local and systemic morbidity, despite their rarity. Opportunistic infections of the orbit should be considered mainly in debilitated or immunocompromised patients. The key to successful management includes a high index of suspicion, prompt diagnosis, and addressing the underlying systemic disease. This review summarizes unusual infectious processes of the orbit, including mycobacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections, as well as their pathophysiology, symptoms, signs, and treatment.

First case report of isolated aspergillus dacryoadenitis

We report a case of isolated Aspergillus dacryoadenitis. A 23-year-old male presented with dull ache, diffuse swelling in superolateral quadrant of the right orbit and proptosis for 4 months. Ocular examination showed conjunctival congestion, discharge in the fornix and palpable lacrimal gland (LG) mass. Routine hematological investigations followed by computed tomography scan of orbits were done. He did not respond to a course of systemic and topical antibiotics. Lateral orbitotomy with extended lid crease incision was performed with excision biopsy of LG. Abundant blackish material was found in the LG intraoperatively. The specimen was sent for histopathological examination (HPE). HPE report showed Aspergillus. Thorough ENT and systemic evaluation ruled out any other site with the fungus. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of Aspergillus infection in LG.

Fungal infections of the orbit

Fungal infections of the orbit can lead to grave complications. Although the primary site of inoculation of the infective organism is frequently the sinuses, the patients can initially present to the ophthalmologist with ocular signs and symptoms. Due to its varied and nonspecific clinical features, especially in the early stages, patients are frequently misdiagnosed and even treated with steroids which worsen the situation leading to dire consequences. Ophthalmologists should be familiar with the clinical spectrum of disease and the variable presentation of this infection, as early diagnosis and rapid institution of appropriate therapy are crucial elements in the management of this invasive sino-orbital infection. In this review, relevant clinical, microbiological, and imaging findings are discussed along with the current consensus on local and systemic management. We review the recent literature and provide a comprehensive analysis. In the immunocompromised, as well as in healthy patients, a high index of suspicion must be maintained as delay in diagnosis of fungal pathology may lead to disfiguring morbidity or even mortality. Obtaining adequate diagnostic material for pathological and microbiological examination is critical. Newer methods of therapy, particularly oral voriconazole and topical amphotericin B, may be beneficial in selected patients.

Concomitant orbital aspergillosis and mucormycosis in a 17 months old immunocompetent child

Isolated multiple orbital fungal infection (aspergillosis & mucormycosis) is extremely rare disease in immunocompetent individuals and especially in children. Placement of prosthetic device during the surgery could be one of the risk factors. The presentation is usually masquerading other entities which make early diagnosis a challengeable. This case presenting a 17 months old immunocompetent child who is diagnosed with isolated multiple orbital fungal infection: aspergillosis & mucormycosis. The presentation was mimicking orbital cellulitis and chronic dacryocystitis. The definitive diagnosis was made by tissue biopsy. The child was managed by surgical debridement and IV amphotericin B liposomal. High index of suspicion to fungal infection should be considered after surgical intervention with insertion prosthetic materials. To the best of our knowledge, orbital aspergillosis in immunocompetent young children is exceptionally rare.

Dacryocystitis As the Initial Presentation of Invasive Fungal Sinusitis in Immunocompromised Children

Sino-orbital fungal infection is a rare, but life-threatening disease seen mainly in immunocompromised patients. While initial clinical impression may vary, dacryocystitis has rarely been described as the initial presenting sign. The authors present 2 pediatric cases of dacryocystitis as the initial sign of invasive fungal sinusitis. To their knowledge, this presenting sign has not been previously reported in the pediatric population. Management strategies and outcomes are discussed.

Seven cases of localized invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis

PURPOSE

To describe the clinical manifestations and prognoses in 7 patients with invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis (ISOA).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of consecutive patients who were diagnosed as having ISOA at the Gifu University Hospital and Gifu Municipal Hospital between January 1993 and December 2015. Data were collected on demographics, initial manifestations, examination findings, treatments, clinical course, and outcomes.

RESULTS

The median age of the 7 patients with ISOA was 68 years; 5 of them had diabetes. The initial symptoms were reduced blurred vision (57%), unilateral headaches (43%), unilateral abnormal sensations or numbness of the periorbital area (43%), and external ophthalmoplegia (43%). The medical department that the patients first visited was the ophthalmology department in 57% of the cases. The initial CT showed bone destruction in 71% and calcification in 14% of the patients. Six of the 7 cases were misdiagnosed. The definitive diagnosis of ISOA was made by histopathologic examinations of the biopsy specimens, with an average of 2.6 biopsies. All patients received aggressive antifungal treatments after the diagnosis. However, the final visual outcome was no light perception in 86% and death related to the ISOA in 43% of the patients. Patients who were older at the onset had lower survival rates.

CONCLUSIONS

The prognosis for patients with ISOA is poor in terms of both vision and life. Ophthalmologists are often the first examiner. ISOA should be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients with a gradually progressive orbital mass, unilateral headaches, numbness of the periorbital area, and a decrease in visual acuity of unknown origin.

[First Report of Intraorbital Abscess Caused by Candida allociferrii and Specific PCR for Differentiating Stephanoascus ciferrii Complex Species]

We present a rare case of intraorbital abscess caused by Candida allociferrii, which was described as a new species of Stephanoascus ciferrii complex in 2002, in a patient after enucleation of choroidal melanoma. This strain showed resistance to itraconazole, and fluconazole. After debridement and topical use of amphotericin B, his wound abscess was disappeared. To our knowledge, this is the first C. allociferrii infection case in human.

Isolated Orbital Aspergillosis in Immunocompetent Patients: A Multicenter Study

OBJECTIVE

To report clinicopathologic features, radiologic findings, and treatment outcomes of isolated, orbital aspergillosis.

DESIGN

Multicenter, retrospective case series.

METHODS

setting: Multicenter.

PARTICIPANTS

There were 8 lesions in 8 eyes of 8 patients with isolated, orbital aspergillosis.

PROCEDURE

Review of medical records and histopathology slides.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Disease control.

RESULTS

Of 34 patients with orbital aspergillosis, 8 (23.5%) had isolated orbital involvement at presentation. The mean age at presentation was 34.5 years (median, 43 years: range, 0.5-72 years). Gradually progressive proptosis and eyelid swelling were the most common presenting features (each 4/8). Proptosis ranged from 4 mm to 9 mm (median, 5.5 mm; mean, 5.75 mm). Restriction of ocular motility was seen in all 8 patients. Other examination findings included palpable mass (2/8), conjunctival chemosis (2/8), hyperglobus (1/8), hypoglobus (1/8), and resistance to retropulsion (1/8). Microbial culture results were available in 1 patient and showed Aspergillus fumigatus. Two patients were treated with complete surgical excision alone while 6 were treated with antifungal medications. Complete resolution of proptosis and restoration of ocular motility were seen in all patients following treatment. Visual disturbances present in 1 were corrected following treatment. Recurrence was observed in 1 patient.

CONCLUSION

Isolated orbital aspergillosis, though rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a patient presenting with a gradually progressive orbital mass, especially in Asian individuals. Early recognition will help reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this disease.

A retrospective analysis of eleven cases of invasive rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis presented with orbital apex syndrome initially

Background

Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis(ROCM) is an invasive fungal infection that usually occurs in immunocompromised patients and sometimes presents as orbital apex syndrome(OAS) initially. It is rapidly fatal without an early diagnosis and treatment. We report the cases of invasive ROCM presenting with OAS initially in order to raise the attention of clinicians.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated eleven cases of invasive ROCM presenting initially with OAS admitted between January 2006 and December 2013. We analyzed clinical features, results of laboratory and radiological examinations, nasal endoscopy, aggressive surgical excision and debridement, and medical management outcomes of each case.

Results

A total of eleven cases of invasive ROCM with OAS as an initial sign were presented. Mucormycosis was accompanied by type II diabetes mellitus in nine cases, renal transplant in one case, and injury caused by traffic accident in one case. Anterior rhinoscopy revealed palatine or nasal necrotic lesions in all patients, and transethmoidal optic nerve decompression was carried out in three patients at the same time. CT scan revealed rhino-orbital-cerebral involvement in every patient. All patients were given intravenous amphotericin B. Nine patients underwent surgical debridement of necrotic tissue. Three patients survived.

Conclusions

ROCM is a severe, emergent and fatal infection requiring multidisciplinary management. It may often present with OAS initially. For ophthalmologist, mucormycosis must be considered in immunocompromised patients presenting with OAS initially, and anterior rhinoscopy is imperative before hormonotherapy, even in the cases absent of ketoacidosis induced by diabetes mellitus.

Fungal Orbital Cellulitis: Presenting Features, Management and Outcomes at a Referral Center

PURPOSE

To report a series of patients with fungal orbital cellulitis who underwent exenteration surgery and describe presenting features, management and outcomes at a referral center.

METHODS

Retrospective case series.

RESULTS

From November 2011 to March 2014, four patients underwent orbital exenteration for fungal orbital cellulitis at the University of Illinois. Three patients had mucormycosis and one had aspergillosis. All patients were treated with intravenous antifungals and underwent orbital exenteration. Two patients were successfully treated with supplemental intra-orbital catheter delivery of amphotericin B. Presenting visual acuity in the affected eye ranged from 20/25 to no light perception. Some level of ophthalmoplegia was present in three patients. Significantly elevated intraocular pressure was found in two patients. All patients with mucormycosis were found to have uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. One patient had a history of myelodysplastic syndrome, chronic hepatitis C infection, polysubstance abuse and Crohn's disease. Another patient had a history of alcoholic liver cirrhosis, Crohn's disease treated with systemic immunosuppression and renal cell carcinoma. The patient with aspergillosis had myelodysplastic syndrome and portal hypertension, and the initial presentation resembled giant cell arteritis. Two of four patients died during their hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

Fungal orbital cellulitis has a high mortality rate despite aggressive antifungal treatment and orbital exenteration performed soon after the diagnosis is confirmed. Patients often have a history of immunosuppression and the onset may be insidious. There must be a high rate of suspicion for fungal orbital cellulitis given the appropriate signs and medical history in order to avoid treatment delay.

Acute chiasmal abscess resulting from perineural extension of invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis in an immunocompetent patient

OBJECTIVE

Intracranially invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis is a rare entity seen predominantly in immunocompromised individuals. We report a unique case of an acute chiasmal abscess resulting from perineural extension of an indolent invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis in an immunocompetent patient.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 61-year-old healthy Ukrainian man presented with severe left retro-orbital pain and a gradual ipsilateral monocular vision loss with rapid progression to a contralateral temporal visual field cut. He was found to have an intracranially invasive sino-orbital Aspergillus fumigatus infection with perineural extension along the optic nerve complicated by an acute chiasmal abscess.

RESULTS

The patient was managed with surgical debridement and adjuvant antifungal chemotherapy. The patient's life and vision were preserved.

CONCLUSIONS

The case demonstrates that it is possible to successfully control advanced intracranial aspergillosis with tissue-sparing surgery and adjuvant antifungal chemotherapy in immunocompetent individuals.

Fine-needle aspiration cytology of orbital and eyelid lesions

Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) of orbital lesions is now increasingly popular. Because of its unique location and the occurrence of varieties of lesions, diagnosis of orbital lesion is a challenge to the cytopathologists. FNAC of orbital and eyelid tumors is a suitable diagnostic technique that necessitates close co-operation between the ophthalmologist and pathologist. No radical procedure should be planned on the basis of FNAC, but it allows the diagnosis of a new primary lesion or the recurrence or metastasis of a tumor and can be done to identify lesions that require either specific medical therapy, as in nonresectable, inflammatory, and lymphoid tumors, or limited surgery for benign resectable neoplasms. With the help of various ancillary techniques a definitive diagnosis is possible on orbital and adnexal lesions. It is essential to have a detailed knowledge on the FNAC of these lesions and their potential pitfalls. In this present review, we have discussed various orbital lesions, their clinical presentations, cytomorphology, and ancillary techniques to confirm the diagnosis.

Selection of the antifungal agent decides prognosis of invasive aspergillosis: case report of a successful outcome with voriconazole

Invasive aspergillosis is a rare disease and is often misdiagnosed. The clinical course is quite aggressive and it is a potentially fatal disease. We report a case of invasive aspergillosis involving the dura mater and optic nerves which was successfully treated with voriconazole, even though the patient had residual monocular blindness. An 86-year-old Japanese man complained of developing loss of vision in his left eye while taking oral fluconazole prescribed by an otolaryngologist for mycosis of the left maxillary sinus. He was referred to our hospital. At the first visit, he already had no light perception in the left eye, with decreased ocular motility in all directions and orbital apex syndrome. His corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) in the right eye was 20/25 with enlargement of Mariotte's blind spot. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed inflammation around both optic nerves that also involved the dura mater. His antifungal therapy was changed to intravenous voriconazole. Although his right CDVA temporarily declined to 20/50, it improved to 20/16 by 10 months after the initiation of treatment. Maxillary sinus biopsy detected Aspergillus. Invasive aspergillosis progresses rapidly and aggressively. The present case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and selection of an appropriate antifungal agent.

Neuro-ophthalmology of invasive fungal sinusitis: 14 consecutive patients and a review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Invasive fungal sinusitis is a rare condition that usually occurs in immunocompromised patients and often presents as an orbital apex syndrome. It is frequently misdiagnosed on presentation and is almost always lethal without early treatment.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series of 14 consecutive patients with biopsy-proven invasive fungal sinusitis from four tertiary hospitals.

PARTICIPANTS

Fourteen patients (10 men and 4 women; age range 46-82 years).

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of all patients presenting with invasive fungal sinusitis between 1994 and 2010 at each hospital, with a close analysis of the tempo of the disease to identify any potential window of opportunity for treatment.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Demographic data, background medical history (including predisposing factors), symptoms, signs, radiological findings, histopathological findings, treatment approach and subsequent clinical course were recorded and analysed.

RESULTS

Only one patient was correctly diagnosed at presentation. Only two patients were not diabetic or immunocompromised. The tempo was acute in two patients, subacute in nine patients and chronic in three patients. In the subacute and chronic cases, there was about 1 week of opportunity for treatment, from the time there was a complete orbital apex syndrome, and still a chance for saving the patient, to the time there was central nervous system invasion, which was invariably fatal. Only two patients survived - both had orbital exenteration, as well as antifungal drug treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Invasive fungal sinusitis can, rarely, occur in healthy individuals and should be suspected as a possible cause of a progressive orbital apex syndrome.

Combined lateral orbitotomy and endoscopic transnasal orbital decompression in a case of orbital aspergillosis with impending intracranial invasion

A 64-year-old man with a known history of diabetes and hypertension presented to the Accident and Emergency Department with a 2-day history of sudden decreased vision in the right eye. Temporal arteritis was suspected with an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (71 mm/h), and oral prednisolone was started immediately. Four days later, the patient's right eye vision deteriorated from 0.6 to 0.05, with a grade-4 relative afferent pupillary defect and ophthalmoplegia. Computed tomography showed a contrast-enhancing orbital apex mass in the right orbit abutting the medial and lateral portions of the optic nerve with extension to the posterior ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses. A transethmoidal biopsy was performed which yielded septate hyphae suggestive of Aspergillus infection. Ten days later, the patient's right eye vision further deteriorated to hand movement with total ophthalmoplegia. MRI of the orbit showed suspicion of cavernous sinus thrombosis. A combined lateral orbitotomy and transethmoidal orbital apex drainage and decompression were performed to eradicate the orbital apex abscess. Drained pus cultured Aspergillus. The patient was prescribed systemic voriconazole for a total of 22 weeks. The latest MRI scan, performed 8 months after surgery, showed residual inflammatory changes with no signs of recurrence of the disease. To our knowledge, this is the first case report which describes the use of a combined open and endoscopic approach for orbital decompression and drainage in a case of orbital aspergillosis. We believe the combined approach gives good exposure to the orbital apex, and allows the abscess in this region to be adequately drained.

Neuro-ophthalmic manifestations of fungal disease associated with posthurricane environment

BACKGROUND

Allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) is thought to represent an immunologic response to exposure to dematiaceous fungi. These fungi are known to cause disease more frequently in hot and humid climates and seasons.

METHODS

Three patients presented with unusual manifestations of fungal disease after exposure to environments recently affected by hurricanes.

RESULTS

Two patients had AFS, 1 with gradual painless visual loss from an AFS mass extending into the suprasellar region and 1 with orbital apex syndrome. Another patient had invasive fungal disease and developed orbital apex syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

These cases underscore the importance of clinical recognition of fungal disease in patients with sinus, orbital, or skull base involvement as well as its potential for causing permanent visual loss. This report suggests a potential association between fungal disease and tropical storm exposure.

Aspergillus niger Infection of an Orbital Exenteration Socket Can Be Treated with Oral Itraconazole

Aspergillus niger infection is a rare complication following orbital exenteration, especially in immunocompetent patients. If untreated, the infection may lead to significant morbidities. We report a patient with this rare infection, who has been treated successfully with oral itraconazole.

Pathogen induced changes in the protein profile of human tears from Fusarium keratitis patients

Fusarium is the major causative agent of fungal infections leading to corneal ulcer (keratitis) in Southern India and other tropical countries. Keratitis caused by Fusarium is a difficult disease to treat unless antifungal therapy is initiated during the early stages of infection. In this study tear proteins were prepared from keratitis patients classified based on the duration of infection. Among the patients recruited, early infection (n = 35), intermediate (n = 20), late (n = 11), samples from five patients in each group were pooled for analysis. Control samples were a pool of samples from 20 patients. Proteins were separated on difference gel electrophoresis (DIGE) and the differentially expressed proteins were quantified using DeCyder software analysis. The following differentially expressed proteins namely alpha-1-antitrypsin, haptoglobin α2 chain, zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein, apolipoprotein, albumin, haptoglobin precursor - β chain, lactoferrin, lacrimal lipocalin precursor, cystatin SA III precursor, lacritin precursor were identified using mass spectrometry. Variation in the expression level of some of the proteins was confirmed using western blot analysis. This is the first report to show stage specific tear protein profile in fungal keratitis patients. Validation of this data using a much larger sample set could lead to clinical application of these findings.

Orbital apex syndrome due to aspergillosis with subsequent fatal subarachnoid hemorrhage

Background:

Orbital apex syndrome has been described previously as a syndrome involving damage to the oculomotor nerve (III), trochlear nerve (IV), abducens nerve (VI), and ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve (V1), in association with optic nerve dysfunction. It may be caused by inflammatory, infectious, neoplastic, iatrogenic, or vascular processes.

Case Description:

A 73-year-old female having hypertension and rheumatoid arthritis stage 4 under long-term corticosteroid therapy presented to us with the right side orbital apex syndrome. Her magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of orbit showed progression of a lesion at the right orbital apex and adjacent right superior orbital fissure with mild extension to the right posterior ethmoid sinus. She underwent endoscopic endonasal transethmoid approach with the removal of the lesion. The pathology showed a picture of fungal infection and the culture of the specimen proved Aspergillus fumigatus. Her postoperative course was smooth until 5 days after surgery, when she suffered a massive spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage resulting from a ruptured aneurysm, which was proven by computed tomography angiography (CTA) of brain. Unfortunately, she expired due to central failure.

Conclusion:

In cases of immunocompromised patients having orbital apex syndrome, fungal infection should be kept in mind. One of the most lethal but rare sequels of CNS fungal infection is intracranial aneurysms. Early diagnosis and radical resection, combined with antifungal medications is the key to save this particular group of patients.

Orbital aspergillosis: voriconazole - the new standard treatment?

Background/Aim

To describe a case of invasive orbital aspergillosis and evaluate treatments and outcomes.

Methods

A case report and review of orbital aspergillosis treatment with voriconazole in the English language literature.

Conclusion

Amphotericin B with debridement is the current standard of care for orbital aspergillosis; however, its prognosis is unfavorable. When compared to amphotericin B, voriconazole demonstrates a survival benefit, has less systemic toxicity, and is better tolerated by patients. While a prospective trial comparing amphotericin B to voriconazole in orbital aspergillosis is not feasible, there is evidence to support the use of voriconazole as primary therapy.