A Comparative Study of Acute Invasive Fungal Sinusitis During the First and Second Waves of the COVID-19 Pandemic

We aimed to compare the demography, clinical profile, histopathology, fungal culture, radiology, surgery performed, medical therapy and outcomes of patients with acute invasive fungal sinusitis seen during the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic by retrospectively reviewing their case records. Of 238 patients, 43(18.1%) presented during the first wave and 195(81.9%) during the second wave. Patients seen during the first wave were older (p = 0.04) and more likely to have visual impairment (p = 0.004), frozen eye (p = 0.012), altered sensorium (p = 0.007) and stage 3 disease (p = 0.03). Those seen during the second wave were more often COVID-19 positive and had newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus (p = 0.04)and stage 1 disease (p = 0.03). Most patients had a positive culture for Rhizopus species during both waves. Histopathology showed broad aseptate hyphae in all patients but angioinvasion was seen more often during the first wave (p = 0.04). The majority of patients were treated with endoscopic+/- open debridement followed by intravenous amphotericin B and oral posaconazole. While the overall survival rate was similar (first wave 65.1%; second wave 79%; p = 0.106), mortality after discharge was greater during the first wave (11.6% vs 1.5%; p = 0.001). Mortality was higher in patients with stage 3 disease (p = 0.003). Significant differences in clinical presentation, histopathology, radiological stage of disease and post-discharge survival were noted between the two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, the causes for which were multi-factorial.

A Rare Case of Ameloblastic Carcinoma of Maxilla

Ameloblastic carcinoma is an odontogenic neoplasm with combined features of ameloblastoma and carcinoma on histopathological examination. Its prognosis is dominated by risk of local recurrence and distant metastasis. We report our patient because of the rare site and to highlight the importance of early, aggressive surgical treatment and regular follow-up.

Construct and Validation of a Three-Dimensional Physical Model for Training in Transnasal Office Procedures

Most simulation models in rhinology are costly and are primarily meant to enhance endoscopic surgical skills. The present study aimed to construct a 3-dimensional model of the nose which is easily constructible with commonly available low cost plaster of Paris (POP) and assess its usefulness in training residents in basic transnasal procedures. A nose model was created using plaster of Paris and assessed for face and content validity by experts in rhinology while a construct validation was performed on five specified tasks by residents. All experts agreed with the resemblance of 10 of the 13 anatomical landmarks in the POP model and its utility in teaching basic transnasal procedures. There was a statistically significant difference in the time taken by I and III year residents in performing a diagnostic nasal endoscopy (p = 0.007), anterior nasal packing with polyvinyl alcohol tampon (p = 0.007), posterior nasal packing with Foley's catheter (p = 0) and nasopharyngeal swabbing (p = 0.025). This study demonstrates the construct of a low cost 3-dimensional POP model and validates its utility in training residents in routine transnasal rhinological procedures. Face and content validation showed a high degree of resemblance to human anatomy with good agreement that this model could increase resident competency. The significant difference in time taken by residents at various levels of experience in performing rhinological procedures also confirmed a reliable construct validity. The described model could be an affordable and easily constructible alternative tool to other simulation models in otorhinolaryngology residency programs especially in developing countries.

Characteristics of Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps Based on Allergic Mucin and Fungal Elements in Patients Undergoing Revision Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

This study sought to document the features in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyp (CRSwNP) patients undergoing revision endoscopic sinus surgery (RESS), based on presence or absence of allergic mucin (AM) and fungal elements (F). A retrospective chart review of RESS cases collected Lund Mackay score (LMS), endoscopic, microbiological, histopathological, surgical and follow-up data of these patients. Patients were categorised into AM + F +, AM + F-, AM-F + and AM-F- subgroups based on the presence or absence of AM and F. The total serum IgE was significantly higher (p > 0.001) in the AM + F + subgroup. Other factors analysed including LMS, duration from previous surgery, comorbidities, degree of inflammation and disease recurrence showed no specific predilection among subgroups. Patients with a retained middle turbinate showed lesser (p = 0.04) recurrence on follow-up. Subgroups of recurrent CRSwNP showed similar characteristics and had further disease recurrence which was independent of allergic mucin and fungal elements. The presence of an intact healthy middle turbinate could reduce early disease recurrence following RESS.