Severe facial pain and removal of maxillary sinus mucous retention cyst

Maxillary sinus retention cysts (MRCs) are typically asymptomatic and require no treatment. An early 30s man presented with a decade-long history of severe left-sided chronic facial pain (CFP). Multiple prior treatments resulted in an edentulous patient with persistent pain. Imaging revealed a dome-shaped radiopaque change in the left maxillary sinus. History and clinical examination suggested persistent idiopathic facial pain, and doubts about the outcome of a surgical intervention were explained to the patient. Surgical removal of the MRC via lateral antrotomy led to complete symptom resolution of CFP. This case substantiates the importance of considering MRCs as a possible cause of CFP. It also emphasises the need for a systematic multidisciplinary approach in cases of unexplained CFP.

Mucocele-like Lesions: Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation

Mucocele-like lesions (MLLs) of the breast are rare lesions described as dilated, mucin-filled cysts associated with rupture and extracellular mucin in the surrounding stroma. These lesions are of clinical concern because they can coexist with a spectrum of atypical and malignant findings, including atypical ductal hyperplasia, ductal carcinoma in situ, and invasive carcinoma including mucinous carcinoma. Imaging findings of MLLs are nonspecific and varied, although the most common initial finding is that of incidental coarse heterogeneous calcifications on mammography. Occasionally, an asymmetry or mass may be found with or without calcifications, and such MLLs have a higher rate of upgrade to malignancy at excision. Pathology findings are often descriptive given the small sample received from percutaneous biopsy, and the primary consideration is to report any associated atypia, including atypical ductal hyperplasia. There is consensus in the literature that MLLs with atypia on biopsy should undergo excision because of the average reported 17.5% (20/114) upgrade rate to malignancy. The upgrade rate for MLLs without atypia averages 4.1% (14/341). Therefore, imaging surveillance may be a reasonable alternative to excision for MLLs with no atypia on a case-by-case basis. We review MLL imaging findings, pathology findings, and clinical management and present 3 cases from our institution to add to the literature on these rare lesions.

'It's just a mucocele': a case report of a massive appendiceal mucocele presenting as a left upper quadrant mass

Tumours of the appendix are very rare tumours that can and often present with a mucocele. This is a case report highlighting the associated pathology of appendix tumours and the management of a large mucocele. Specifically, how a right hemicolectomy is very rarely needed in these cases regardless of size and local anatomical relationships and some important considerations for the practicing surgeon in the non-tertiary centre that encounters a case like this.

CT analysis of predictors for visual acuity in optic neuropathy with mucocele

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the causative and risk factors for optic neuropathy with mucocele via imaging studies.

METHODS

We included 21 patients with rhinogenous optic neuropathy with mucocele. We collected data on the sinus involved, age, sex, number of days from the onset of visual impairment to surgery, and computed tomography (CT) imaging findings (bone defects in the lamina papyracea, Onodi cell mucocele, exophthalmos, and optic nerve deviation). The results were compared between two groups, the one having nine patients with pre-operative visual acuity of <0.1 (the poor group) and the other having 12 patients with pre-operative visual acuity of ≥0.1 (the fair group). Whether or not there was a difference in pre-operative visual acuity between patients with and without Onodi cell mucocele was determined.

RESULTS

After surgery, visual acuity improved in 16/21 (76.2%) patients, and a correlation analysis showed a significant positive correlation between pre-operative and post-operative visual acuity. In imaging, the causative sinuses accounted for 85.7% of both posterior ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses. Bone defects of the lamina papyracea at the optic canal and the vertical downward deviation of the optic nerve at each location, especially in 6/9 patients with Onodi cell mucocele, were characteristic in the poor group. In these conditions, increasing the contact areas of the optic nerve and mucocele can leads to more chances of direct downward compression of the optic nerve and infection occurring, and it may lead to severe pre-operative visual impairment.

CONCLUSION

Imaging studies of optic neuropathy with mucocele help to determine the risk factors and perform early and precise diagnostic imaging and decision-making for surgery.

Laparoscopic resection for appendiceal mucocele secondary to endometriosis: A case report

INTRODUCTION

This case report describes a patient who underwent laparoscopic resection of the mucocele of the appendix secondary to endometriosis, a rarity in clinical practice.

PATIENT CONCERNS

The patient was a 38-year-old woman with a history of endometriosis and an ovarian cyst who sought medical advice with a chief complaint of mild right lower abdominal pain.

DIAGNOSES

Computed tomography and ultrasonography of the abdomen revealed a cystic lesion at the distal end of the appendix without definitive findings of malignancy. Colonoscopy revealed a submucosal tumor-like elevation at the appendiceal orifice. Appendiceal mucocele was suspected preoperatively.

INTERVENTIONS

The lesion was resected laparoscopically. Secondary ileocecal resection with lymphadenectomy was possible if the resected specimen was pathologically diagnosed as a malignant tumor with the risk of lymph node metastasis.

OUTCOMES

The resected specimen was pathologically diagnosed as an appendiceal mucocele secondary to endometriosis; therefore, additional surgery was avoided.

CONCLUSION

Although appendiceal mucoceles secondary to endometriosis are rare, laparoscopic surgery in which only the lesion was resected is a useful strategy for the treatment and pathological diagnosis of appendiceal mucoceles without findings of malignancy.

Computed tomographic imaging of a maxillary sinus mucocele in an 8-year-old French Bulldog

An 8-year-old male neutered French Bulldog was referred for continued nasal dyspnea following a staphylectomy revision performed one month prior to presentation. The patient had a prior history of skin allergies and underwent brachycephalic airway surgery performed at one year of age. Computed tomography (CT) revealed an osseous-encased, cystic mass arising from the right maxillary sinus. Surgical biopsies were performed and a mucocele with sinusitis and glandular hyperplasia was diagnosed. Based on our systematic review of the literature, maxillary sinus mucocele has not been reported in the dog and should be among the differentials for sinus cystic masses.

Maxillary Sinus Mucocele With Fungal Ball

Mucocele is a benign, expansile, and oppressive lesion, more common in the frontal and ethmoid sinus and less in the maxillary sinus. Sinus mucocele mainly causes cheek swelling pain and nasal obstruction. In some cases, the paranasal mucocele grows large enough to compress periorbital structures and lead to impaired vision. Generally, mucocele is full of simple mucus, but pathogens can be found if co-infected, which means a poor prognosis. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery is an effective treatment for this disease. Here, the authors report a case that a mucocele occurred in the maxillary sinus, and a fungal ball was also found during the operation, which is a result of Paecilomyces farinosus co-infection.

Orbital Reconstruction Using a Polyetheretherketone Patient-Specific Implant After Removal of a Mucocele Developing After Orbital Fracture Repair

A few mucoceles developing secondary to facial bone fractures have been reported. Mucocele formation is thought to be attributable to displacement of the respiratory mucosa with obstruction of the sinus opening, especially if untreated. Accurate diagnosis and management are required; a growing mucocele will gradually destroy adjacent bony structures and cause irreversible complications. The authors describe a patient who presented with diplopia and mild discomfort when gazing upward. She had undergone reconstruction of medial and inferior orbital fractures 20 years previously. The patient was diagnosed with a mucocele developing after orbital fracture repair. The patient underwent mucocele removal and orbital reconstruction using a polyetheretherketone patient-specific implant. In a patient with orbital symptoms but without acute trauma, a mucocele should be among the differential diagnoses if history-taking reveals past orbital trauma and surgery. A polyetheretherketone patient-specific implant was effective for orbital reconstruction after mucocele removal.

Clival Mucocele: A Rare Yet not Forgotten Pathology

Primary clival mucoceles are a rare clinical entity that usually represents an incidental finding on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging scanning. There are only a few reports in the literature of patients who presented with vague symptoms such as headaches, facial paresthesia, and numbness. Clival mucoceles can also be secondary, by extension of a sphenoid mucocele to the clivus. We present a case of primary clival mucocele, aiming to highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary approach.

Appendiceal mucocele as an exceptional cause of ileocecocolic intussusception in adults: a case report

BACKGROUND

Intussusception is a rare condition in adults, accounting for 5% of intestinal intussusception and being responsible for approximately 1% of all adult bowel obstructions. Neoplastic origin is the most common etiology of intestinal intussusception in adults, unlike pediatric intussusception, which is usually idiopathic. Intussusception due to the appendiceal mucocele is exceptional, and only a few cases have been reported in the medical literature.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the case of a 25-year-old black African male patient with no medical history. He presented to the emergency department for abdominal pain, nausea, and bilious vomiting. The abdominal examination revealed typical signs of acute bowel obstruction. Enhanced abdominopelvic computed tomography showed an invagination of the last ileal loop, cecum, and ascending colon into the lumen of the transverse colon, with a rounded image with hypodense content and some calcifications compatible with an appendiceal mucocele. An emergency exploratory laparoscopy was performed and confirmed the ileocecocolic intussusception. Right hemicolectomy and ileocolic anastomosis were performed. The patient recovery postoperatively was uneventful, and he was discharged 4 days later. Histological examination of the surgical specimen confirmed the diagnosis of mucinous cystadenoma.

CONCLUSION

The symptoms of bowel intussusception with the appendiceal mucocele as the lead point in adults are similar to any other bowel intussusception. Differential diagnosis is often carried out thanks to the injected abdominal computed tomography scan.

Nasal obstruction in a 14 year old girl caused by a huge middle turbinate mucocele appearing radiologically as an inverted papilloma

Introduction

We present a case of a fourteen year old girl who presented with a large intra-nasal mass to the ENT team at a district general hospital in the UK.

Presentation of case

The girl presented predominantly with nasal obstruction and some symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Imaging revealed a large lesion abutting the skull base and causing bony remodelling with marked septal deviation. Based both on CT and MRI imaging, the reporting (non-head and neck) radiologist suggested inverted papilloma as a differential diagnosis. Intra-operative exploration in fact revealed a very large left middle turbinate mucocele extending to the left frontal sinus. The mass was excised endoscopically without complications.

Discussion

Although concha bullosa of the middle turbinate of the nose are common, development of a mucocele within them is far less common and for such a mucocele to develop to this size in a child is extremely rare. The egg shell lining of the lesion can be a tell-tale sign of their aetiology when taken alongside other radiological factors. This case highlights challenges in radiological diagnosis of intra-nasal masses in children, which can lead to delays and increased anxiety.

Conclusion

When assessing nasal masses in children it is important to keep a wide differential due to the challenges of diagnosis. A close conversation should be had with local head and neck radiologists and, of course, where there is a unilateral nasal mass tissue sampling is essential and may be taken as part of a full excision where clinically indicated.

Unusual ocular manifestations of ethomoidal mucocele: a case report

A 42-year-old female patient had vision loss and chronic epiphora in her left eye. Her best-corrected visual acuity was 10/10 in the right eye and 0.3/10 in the left eye. The anterior segment examination results were normal. In fundus examination, choroidal folds were detected. Optical coherence tomography showed elevation on the macula and choroidal folds. Ultrasonography revealed a T-sign. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an ethmoidal mucocele that compresses the orbital tissues. Surgical treatment was performed in the otorhinolaryngology department. Postoperatively, choroidal folds recovered, and the best-corrected visual acuity improved, but subretinal fluid accumulated. During the follow-up period without any treatment, subretinal fluid totally disappeared.

Appendiceal mucocele - a radiologists view

Appendiceal mucocele is an obstructive dilatation of the appendix, which results from the filling of its lumen with mucus. This is a rare condition that is asymptomatic in half of the patients. Its severity depends on the cause of appendiceal dilatation. In a small percentage of cases, the dilated appendix ruptures, leading to the development of serious complication; this is termed as pseudomyxoma peritonei. Due to the possibility of malignant etiology of the mucocele, surgical resection remains an essential part of the treatment.

Bilateral sphenoid sinus mucocele observed in Yaoundé-Cameroon: a case report

A mucocele is a cystic and expansive lesion of the sinus cavities. It is uncommon in the sphenoid sinus and its management is quite challenging especially in low to middle income countries like Cameroon. A 43-years-old female was referred to us by a neurologist for chronic headache and visual disturbances. The pain was unresponsive to analgesics. Physical examination was non-remarkable and a head CT scan realized showed a cyst-like lesion in the sphenoid sinus cavity. Surgical endoscopic treatment was proposed and realized with basic endoscopic instruments, consisting of opening the cavity with drainage of the mucocele. A large opening was made on the anterior wall of the sphenoid sinus, in order to ensure continuous drainage and prevent a recurrence. Sphenoid sinus mucocele is a rare condition, and its diagnosis can be difficult. Confirmation requires specific imaging and treatment is presently well established, but it can be managed with basic tools.

Clinicopathological features of 214 maxillary sinus pathologies. A ten-year single-centre retrospective clinical study

BACKGROUND

Diagnosis of maxillary sinus pathology must include the clinical radiological study (CRS) and histopathological analysis. The aim of this study is 1) to describe the clinicopathological features of maxillary sinus lesions, obtained successively in a single medical centre over the last 10 years and 2) to determine the sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of malignant lesions based exclusively on the CRS.

METHODS

It is a single-centre observational retrospective clinical study on patients who attended the University Hospital Complex of Santiago de Compostela (CHUS) with sinus pathologies during the period of 2009-2019.

RESULTS

The sample consisted of 133 men (62.1%) and 81 women (37.9%), with an average age of 46.9 years (SD = 18.8). In terms of frequency, the most frequent pathology was the unspecified sinusitis (44.4%), followed by polyps (18.2%), malignant tumours (9.8%), inverting papilloma (7.5%), fungal sinusitis (4.7%), cysts (3.7%), benign tumours (2.3%), mucocele (2.3%) and other lesions (1.9%). Cysts and benign tumours were diagnosed earliest Vs malignant tumours (65.2 years (SD = 16.1)) were diagnosed the latest (p < 0.001). Based only on the CRS for malignancies, diagnostic indexes were 71.4% sensitivity and 97.9% specificity, with a Kappa value of 0.68 with (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Maxillary sinus pathology is very varied with therapeutic and prognostic repercussions. CRS is sometimes insufficient and histopathological confirmation is essential.

Pulmonary barotrauma: assessment and investigation in divers

Decompression illness (DCI) is an uncommon problem but can be significant in terms of morbidity and, very rarely, mortality. The mechanisms of DCI are pulmonary barotrauma and decompression sickness due to inert gas supersaturation. After the initial management phase, identification of predisposing factors is important to help advise divers regarding future risk and avoidance. Here we present four cases of DCI where pulmonary barotrauma was the likely causative mechanism. We highlight the important features in assessment for pulmonary barotrauma and advising divers on the risk of a recurrence.

Pseudomixoma peritonei associated with appendiceal cistoadenoma rupture: case report

Appendiceal mucocele represents specimen finding in 0.2-0.3% out of appendectomies. The rupture or perforation in peritoneal cavity might cause pseudomixoma peritonei (PMP), with multiple mucinous deposits in the abdominal cavity. We report a case of PMP caused by a perforated appendiceal cistoadeonoma.

Appendiceal Mass - Dilemmas Regarding Extension of the Resection

Starting from a typical case, we try to highlight the main critical elements, both in the diagnostic algorithm and in the therapeutic one. We hereby present a 54-year old patient, known with hepatic steatosis and renal microlithiasis, which undergoes an ultrasonography in ambulatory, on the background of unsystematised abdominal discomfort; the ultrasound reveals the presence of a tumoral mass in the right iliac fossa.

[Orbital cavity tumor with macular folds]

A 40-year-old patient presented with an orbital tumor of the right eye accompanied by visual impairment and macular folds. The diagnosis of mucocele was made through clinical and radiological investigations. The excision of the mucocele was performed immediately. As early as 8 weeks after the operation, an obvious increase in visual acuity was noticed. At this time, the macular folds were no longer detectable.

Frontoethmoidal Osteoma with Secondary Intradural Mucocele Extension Causing Frontal Lobe Syndrome and Pneumocephalus: Case Report and Review of Literature

BACKGROUND

Paranasal sinus osteoma is a common, asymptomatic, histologically benign, slow-growing tumor. However, it can give rise to secondary pathologies such as a mucocele in about 50% of the cases. Rarely, intracranial and orbital extension is present, leading to rhinoliquorrhea, pneumocephalus, or neurologic and visual impairment, which might be potentially life-threatening.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 49-year-old man presented with an acute frontal lobe syndrome and rhinoliquorrhea. Cranial magnetic resonance tomography showed a suspected frontoethmoidal osteoma with a mucocele expanding intradurally into the left frontal lobe. It was accompanied by pneumocephalus and showed communication with the left lateral ventricle. Through a bifrontal craniotomy, in toto resection of the frontoethmoidal bony tumor and the intradural mucocele was performed, while thereafter the frontal sinus was cranialized using a pedunculated periosteal flap. Postoperative recovery was uneventful with complete resolution of the tension pneumocephalus and rhinoliquorrhea and led to an improvement of the frontal lobe syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

We present a rare case of pneumocephalus caused by a frontoethmoidal osteoma associated with an intradural mucocele. A review of the literature, focusing on the surgical strategies in such cases, is provided.

Maxillary sinus mucocele with orbital complications

INTRODUCTION

Maxillary sinus mucocele is an unusual clinic entity (incidence of 3-10%), represented by mucous secretion lined by respiratory stratified pavemented epithelium and its origin is mainly secondary to infections, inflammations, surgery, trauma or neoplasia.

CASE REPORT

We present a case of maxillary sinus mucocele. Subject of the study is a 74 aged patient referring positive anamnesis for nasal cavity surgery. His symptoms appeared six months ago and he complainted vertical ocular diplopia and ocular tension sensation, without rhinologic complaints. Oculistic examination confirmed an isolated left inferior rectus palsy, and CT showed mucous secretion occupying left maxillary sinus, with bone erosion to the orbital floor until orbital muscles. MRI is the gold standard for differential diagnosis with neoplastic lesions but the patient refused to perform this radio-diagnostic exam. He underwent to Endoscopic sinus surgery, consisting in middle meatal antrostomy and removal of the mucocele. Four months later the endoscopic follow-up showed regular maxillary cavity and regular ocular motility.

CONCLUSION

In our opinion the rebuilding of the eroded bone is not mandatory if the integrity of the maxillary upper wall mucosa is respected, and antrostomy with drainage allows to recover ocular and paranasal sinus function. KEY WORDS:, Diplopia, Endoscopic sinus surgery.

Unilateral proptosis revealing a fronto-ethmoidal mucocele

Backgroud: The fronto-ethmoidal mucocele is a benign condition leading commonly to limited eye movement or ocular pain but it could also induce visual acuity impairment by compressing the optic nerve Aim: To discuss, through a case report, different ophthalmologic manifestations of the fronto-ethmoidalmucocele. Reported case: A 46-years-old man with no general history consulted for a bilateral ocular redness and itching. He reported, however, a mild protrusion of his left globe evolving for oneyear. The clinical examination revealed a unilateral proptosis in the left eye with a discrete limitation of theadduction. A brain and orbital computer tomography (CT)and a magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)revealed a grade I exophthalmos caused by an oval formation of fluid density in the left anterior and posterior ethmoidal cells in addition to the frontal sinus,driving theeyeball and internal oculomotor muscles back and out.The patient was referred to otorhinolaryngology department for a precocious surgical management.

CONCLUSION

The ophtalmologic manifestations of the disease depend on the location, the size of the formation and involvement of adjacent structures. The loss of vision and the apex syndrome due to the compressionof the ocular globe are the most serious complications.

[Significance of differential diagnosis for sinonasal mass by CT value]

OBJECTIVE

To explore whether CT value is useful in identifying different disease in tumors of rhinosinus parenchyma.
 Methods: The data of preoperation noncontrast CT in 277 patients were retrospectively reviewed. The final diagnosis and classification were based on the result of surgical histopathological examination. The CT value range for different classification was calculated and was compared. All patients were re-diagnosed according to CT value range combined with pathological results by the same doctor team. The diagnosis rates according to CT value range were compared.
 Results: The CT value was (25.3±3.5) Hu in nasal polyp, (7.9±3.5) Hu in serous cyst, (42.2±4.7) Hu in mucocele, (40.7±5.3) Hu in papilloma, (112.3±10.9) Hu in fungus ball, (41.7±4.8) Hu in hemangioma, (51.2±9.9) Hu in malignant melanoma, and (47.1±9.9) Hu in squamous carcinoma. The CT value in nasal polyp is significantly higher than that in serous cyst, which was significantly lower than that in mucocele, papilloma, fungus ball, hemangioma, malignant melanoma and squamous carcinoma (all P<0.05); the CT value in serous cyst was significantly lower than that in other classification diseases (all P<0.05); the CT value in fungus ball was significantly higher than that in other classification diseases (all P<0.05); there was no significant difference in CT value among mucocele, papilloma, hemangioma, malignant melanoma, squamous carcinoma (all P﹥0.05). The diagnosis rate was elevated (from 71.1% to 92.4%) according to CT value range, with significant difference (χ2=42.150, P<0.01).
 Conclusion: CT value in nasal polyp, serous cyst, fungus ball is different from other diseases, and the 3 diseases can be distinguished only by CT value range; the CT value in mucocele, papilloma, hemangioma, malignant melanoma and squamous carcinoma is similar, and their differential diagnosis should combine with imaging data and other clinical characters. The diagnosis rates can be improved when the CT value range is taken into account.

Secondary adult encephalocele with abscess formation of calcified frontal sinus mucocele

INTRODUCTION

Although encephalocele is a rare congenital abnormality, secondary encephalocele is extremely rare and can cause fatal complications. Here, we report a case of secondary encephalocele caused by frontal sinus wall defect due to chronic sinusitis, which was completely removed by cranialization with autologous bone graft. A 50-year-old man with a 10-year history of chronic sinusitis visited our hospital due to suddenly altered mentality characterized by stupor. Computerized tomography scanning and magnetic resonance imaging revealed an enlarged left frontal sinus with sinusitis. The frontal sinus cavity was calcified, and the left frontal lobe had herniated into the cavity accompanied by yellow pus. A large dural defect was also found around the frontal sinus area. After removal of the abscess and some of the frontal lobe, frontal skull base repair by cranialization was performed using autologous bone graft. Streptococcus pneumoniae was cultured from the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), necessitating treatment with antibiotics. After the operation, the mental status of the patient improved and no CSF leakage was observed.

DISCUSSION

In addition to correct diagnosis and early treatment including antibiotics, the surgical repair of defects is needed in patients with secondary encephalocele to prevent further episodes of meningitis. Surgical correction of frontal sinus encephalocele can be achieved through bifrontal craniotomy or endoscopic transnasal repair. If a patient has CSF leakage, open craniotomy may facilitate repair of the dural defect and allow for cranialization of the sinus.

CONCLUSIONS

Removal of dysplastic herniated brain tissue and cranialization of the frontal sinus may be a good option for treating secondary encephalocele and its associated complications, including meningitis, abscess formation, and infarction of the herniated brain parenchyma.

Feasibility of near real-time image-guided sinus surgery using intraoperative fluoroscopic computed axial tomography

Objective

One of the main limitations of image-guided surgery is that navigation relies on the use of a CT scan obtained before surgery and is unable to be updated during the procedure. A software addition has been developed to allow reconstruction of CT-like images from a series of fluoroscopic scans and integrate these into an image-guided system (GE Healthcare Surgical Navigation, Lawrence, MA). We report our initial experience with a series of patients undergoing intraoperative fluoroscopic navigation in sinus surgery.

Study Design and Settings

After institutional review board clearance, we prospectively studied 14 consecutive patients undergoing image-guided sinus surgery with the use of intraoperative fluoroscopy.

Results

All patients had preoperative and postoperative fluoroscopic images reconstructed into CT-like images. By the conclusion of the study, images were adequate in quality and accurate navigation was achieved.

Conclusion

Real-time image-guided sinus surgery using fluoroscopy is feasible. Future studies will need to focus on defining the procedures that could benefit, such as tumor resection, to enhance patient safety during these operations.

[Intermittent swelling of the eyelid]

BACKGROUND

Mucoceles are benign mucous-containing cysts that can occur in the sinuses. They arise as a result of an obstruction of the sinus ostium. There is often a delay in diagnosis because symptoms are so variable.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 52-year-old woman had intermittent swelling of the eyelid. A CT scan of the sinuses showed a mucocele in the frontal sinus with breakthrough to the left orbit. Treatment consisted of marsupialisation by means of functional endoscopic sinus surgery with septum correction.

CONCLUSION

Breakthrough of a mucocele to the orbit should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients with an intermittent swelling of the eyelid.

Excess Secretion of Gel-Forming Mucins and Associated Innate Defense Proteins with Defective Mucin Un-Packaging Underpin Gallbladder Mucocele Formation in Dogs

Mucosal protection of the gallbladder is vital yet we know very little about the mechanisms involved. In domestic dogs, an emergent syndrome referred to as gallbladder mucocele formation is characterized by excessive secretion of abnormal mucus that results in obstruction and rupture of the gallbladder. The cause of gallbladder mucocele formation is unknown. In these first mechanistic studies of this disease, we investigated normal and mucocele-forming dog gallbladders to determine the source, identity, biophysical properties, and protein associates of the culprit mucins with aim to identify causes for abnormal mucus behavior. We established that mucocele formation involves an adoptive excess secretion of gel forming mucins with abnormal properties by the gallbladder epithelium. The mucus is characterized by a disproportionally significant increase in Muc5ac relative to Muc5b, defective mucin un-packaging, and mucin-interacting innate defense proteins that are capable of dramatically altering the physical and functional properties of mucus. These findings provide an explanation for abnormal mucus behavior and based on similarity to mucus observed in the airways of people with cystic fibrosis, suggest that abnormal mechanisms for maintenance of gallbladder epithelial hydration may be an instigating factor for mucocele formation in dogs.

Endoscopic resection of a mucocele of the crista galli

Mucoceles expand by the process of bone resorption and new bone formation, which leads to local destruction and displacement of adjacent structures. We present the case of a 47-year-old woman who presented with recurrent headaches, nausea, and vomiting, all of which were believed to have occurred secondary to a mucocele of the crista galli. To the best of our knowledge, only 1 similar case has been previously reported in the world literature; in that case, the crista galli was drained externally. In our patient, resolution of symptoms was achieved by endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy, endoscopic frontal sinusotomy, and drainage of the mucocele under image guidance. We recommend that an endoscopic surgical approach be considered for the management of mucoceles of the crista galli.

Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm mimicking an adnexal mass

We present a rare case of malignant epithelial neoplasm of the appendix, an uncommon disorder encountered in clinical practice, which poses a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We report a particular case in which the appendix was abnormally located in the pelvis, mimicking an adnexal mass. Therefore, it was difficult to make the preoperative diagnosis on clinical examination, imaging studies and laboratory tests and we discovered the lesion during the diagnostic laparoscopy. No lymphadenopathy or mucinous ascites were found. The case was completely handled via the laparoscopic approach keeping the appendix intact during the operation. The frozen section, the detailed histopathology overview as well as multiple immunostaining with a complex panel of markers report diagnosed a low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (LAMN) with no invasion of the wall. No adjuvant therapy was considered needed. At a one-year follow-up oncological assessment, the patient was free of disease. In women with cystic mass in the right iliac fossa an appendiceal mucocele should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Laparoscopic appendectomy can represent an adequate operation for the appendiceal mucinous neoplasm if the histological report is clear and surgical precautionary measures are taken.

Atypical presentation of salivary mucocele: diagnosis and management

A mucocele is a common pathological lesion involving the minor salivary glands. It usually presents as an asymptomatic small superficial swelling over the lower labial mucosa. However, uncommon variants of oral mucoceles sometimes occur. Such lesions may be difficult to diagnose due to their unusual size and atypical clinical presentation. This article describes the case of a deeply embedded large mucocele over the buccal mucosa. Ultrasonography was used to visualize the size and position of the lesion, and aspiration was used to help in the eventual diagnosis. An intraoral approach was used in the complete removal of the lesion.

Unusual case of frontal mucocele presenting with forehead ulcer

Paranasal mucoceles are benign slow-growing paranasal sinus lesions, which usually develop following the obstruction of the sinus ostiu. They most frequently occur in the frontal sinus. Frontal mucoceles are expansive lesions usually causing visual clinical signs and symptoms such as diminution of vision, visual field defects, diplopia, orbital swelling, retroorbital pain, displacement of eye globe, ptosis, and proptosis. When the frontal mucocele extends intracranially, it can manifest with meningitis, meningoencephalitis, intracranial abscess, seizures, or cerebrospinal fluid fistula. Very rarely it can cause forehead swelling. We report an 80-year-old woman presenting with a forehead skin ulcer and painless subcutaneous forehead induration. Histopathologic examination revealed mucin deposition and inflammation. Computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans showed a mass originating from the frontal sinus with frontal bony defect and frontocutaneous fistula. Surgical excision of the mass confirmed the mucocele diagnosis. In this article, we present a case of frontocutaneous fistula and skin ulcer, which is an unexpected complication of frontal mucocele. We propose that in the case of a localized non-healing ulcerated forehead skin lesions, mucocele should be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Long-term efficacy of inferior meatal antrostomy for treatment of postoperative maxillary mucoceles

PURPOSE

Transnasal endoscopic marsupialization has replaced the conventional Caldwell-Luc operation for managing postoperative maxillary mucoceles. Inferior meatal antrostomy (IMA) may be an easier and more effective method than middle meatal antrostomy (MMA) because of anatomical and structural changes of the maxillary sinus. We evaluated the long-term efficacy and technical simplicity of both methods.

METHODS

This study included 21 and 32 patients who underwent MMA and IMA, respectively. They were diagnosed with a unilateral postoperative maxillary mucocele, and medical records were reviewed for history, clinical presentation, radiographic findings, surgical intervention, complications, and outcomes. During follow-up, the size of the opening and stenosis or obstruction of the antrostomy site were evaluated.

RESULTS

Preoperative symptoms and mean follow-up period were similar in both groups. All patients in the IMA group received the operation as planned, whereas in four MMA patients, the attempt to create an opening failed because of thick bones and anatomical changes from the previous operation; in these patients, IMA was performed. The opening remained large enough for ventilation and drainage between the mucocele and the nasal cavity in both groups. There were no major complications, such as profuse bleeding, wound infection, or orbital or nasolacrimal duct injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Although both surgical procedures seem to be effective for managing postoperative maxillary mucoceles, IMA is easier to perform, and no instances of failure to create antrostomy openings occurred. We recommend IMA as the surgical technique of choice, but providing an opening of sufficient size is necessary to ensure long-term efficacy.

Appendiceal mucocele: clinical and imaging features of 14 cases

PURPOSE

Appendiceal mucocele as a cystic dilatation filled with mucinous material is a very rare disease of the appendix vermiformis. Its preoperative diagnosis is still acking behind common use of imaging techniques.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of the patients with a pathological diagnosis of appendiceal mucocele with regard to clinical and imaging features.

RESULTS

The study group included 14 patients with a mean age of 51 years (range from 17 to 82 years). Predominant symptoms were pain and feeling of fullness in the right iliac fossa in 9(64%) and 5 (36%) patients, respectively. For imaging purposes, use of computed tomography resulted in preoperative diagnosis of appendiceal mucocele in half of the patients(50%). 93% of the cases underwent appendectomy, and righth emicolectomy was performed in one patient (7%). Mucocele and cystadenoma were detected in 11 (79%) and 3 (21%)patients, respectively. Presence of acute appendicitis and coloncarcinoma were confirmed afterwards histologically in 4 (29%)and one (7%) patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the common use of imaging studies,preoperative diagnosis of appendiceal mucocele is still not possible in most of the cases. During surgical treatment,which is tailored according to imaging and intraoperative findings, precautionary measures to avoid intraperitoneal rupture and dissemination should be taken.

Frontal sinus mucocoeles: new algorithm for surgical management

BACKGROUND

Frontal sinus mucocoeles require a structured approach to their surgical management. We share our experience of a novel method of positional classification for frontal mucocoele and corresponding surgical algorithm.

METHODS

A retrospective case-note review examined all frontal sinus surgery for mucocoele, spanning three years (2008-2010). Patients had pre-operative nasendoscopy, multi-planar CT and MRI when indicated. Several important variables (position, drainage dimensions, fronto-ethmoidal cells and degree of neo-osteogenesis) were noted. A systematic algorithm was used for surgical drainage based on these characteristics. The three year outcomes using this approach are presented.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients were identified with a total of 43 frontal mucocoeles. Using our classification, 30 mucocoeles were medial; seven were intermediate; six were lateral. Thirty-four patients underwent a primary endoscopic procedure; six required a combined primary osteoplastic-flap (OPF) and endoscopic approach. Six patients required revision surgery for polypoidal change or neo-ostium stenosis. All patients were eventually rendered asymptomatic.

CONCLUSION

Implementation of our positional classification and surgical algorithm was successful with a revision rate of 19%. Presence of frontal sinus wall dehiscence and extra-sinus mucocoele extension are invalid indicators for external approach. We feel our classification and treatment algorithm, with its associated indicators for surgical escalation (i.e. limited dimensions of frontal ostium, presence of Type III / IV front-ethmoidal cells etc), are applicable for future management of frontal mucocoeles.

Sphenoid sinus mucocele as a cause of isolated pupil-sparing oculomotor nerve palsy mimicking diabetic ophthalmoplegia

A 37-year-old woman presented with isolated right-sided oculomotor nerve palsy. Neurologic examination revealed no other disorder. Computed tomography of the paranasal sinuses demonstrated complete opacification of the sphenoid sinus. Dense mucoid fluid was drained from the sphenoid sinus via an endoscopic transseptal sphenoidotomy. A biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of sphenoid sinus mucocele. At follow-up 4 weeks postoperatively, the patient's ocular symptoms were markedly alleviated. Considering rare causes of isolated oculomotor nerve palsy, such as sphenoid sinus mucocele, is important in the differential diagnosis, even in patients with well-known risk factors such as diabetes mellitus.

Appendicitis and benign appendiceal mucocele presenting as large bowel obstruction

INTRODUCTION

Appendiceal mucocele is most commonly encountered incidentally during appendectomy.

METHODS

We report a case of large bowel obstruction presenting as a closed loop with an appendiceal mucocele as the lead point, superimposed on a chronic ileal stricture that had been misdiagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome.

RESULTS

The patient underwent ileocecal resection and primary anastomosis. She did well postoperatively, and her irritable bowel syndrome disappeared.

CONCLUSIONS

Appendiceal mucocele can present in a variety of ways, and surgeons should be alert for atypical presentations. Moreover, some patients with intermittent abdominal pain deserve anatomic investigation before being dismissed as having irritable bowel.

Intestinal obstruction secondary to appendiceal mucocele

Few cases of intestinal obstruction complicating an appendiceal mucocele have been recorded. We report the case of a young woman who presented to the emergency room with diffusely abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and disruption of bowel movements. Her abdomen was mildly distended and tympanic. A flat film of the abdomen revealed dilated small bowel loops with air-fluid levels suggestive of small bowel obstruction. She also had leukocytosis. An emergency operation was performed under the diagnosis of intestinal obstruction. The intraoperatory findings showed a tumoral appendiceal mass permeated into the ileum in two distinct points, causing an enteral stenosis. We performed an appendectomy "en bloc" with two enteral loop resections of the permeated ileum followed by two T-T enteral anastomoses. The pathologic examination revealed appendiceal mucinous cystadenoma. Postoperative course was favorable, the patient being discharged on the seventh postoperative day. Postoperative checks performed at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months (including colonoscopy) have not showed pathological changes.

Mucocele of the vermiform appendix misdiagnosed as an adnexal mass on transvaginal sonography

Mucocele of the vermiform appendix is a rare entity that may mimic a right-sided adnexal mass. We describe a case of appendiceal mucocele in a 78-year-old woman that was initially misdiagnosed as a potentially malignant right ovarian tumor and briefly review the literature on sonographic features of this entity. It is important to improve preoperative diagnosis so as to prevent rupture of mucocele at surgery, which may lead to pseudomyxoma peritonei, and also to seek intraoperatively for the presence of synchronous colorectal neoplasms.