Characteristics of Bony Erosion in Allergic Fungal Rhinosinusitis

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Erosion of bone with or without extension of disease into adjacent anatomic spaces is observed among some patients with allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS). The objective of this report is to further define these findings as they relate to this disease. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective chart review of 142 patients with AFRS diagnosed using the Bent-Kuhn criteria. All patients were treated at a single institution. RESULTS: Approximately 20% of patients with AFRS demonstrated bone erosion on CT scan. The ethmoid sinus was the most commonly eroded site. The orbit and anterior cranial fossa were the most common adjacent anatomic spaces to exhibit disease extension. Sinus expansion, not the specific organism identified, was associated with the presence of bone erosion. Surgical management with endoscopic techniques was successful for all patients without any major perioperative complications. CONCLUSION: Bone erosion can be related to AFR. Recognition of this possibility is important because bone erosion can be interpreted as an indication of invasive pathosis. In the presence of bone erosion or disease extension, endoscopic techniques can be used to surgically manage this disease.