Bilateral cholesterol granulomas of the maxillary sinus with review of the literature

Abstract

Cholesterol granulomas are a common benign pathology classically found in the mastoid antrum and air cells of the temporal bone and less commonly found in the paranasal sinuses. We present a unique case of bilateral cholesterol granulomas of the maxillary sinus that is the second case to our knowledge reported in the literature. In an effort to provide an update about cholesterol granulomas of the paranasal sinuses, we examined the literature from January 2011 through 2021 in conjunction with a previous systematic review of the literature from 1970 to December 2010. This report reinforces that upon presentation, cholesterol granulomas can resemble multiple pathologies and histology is needed for diagnosis. This report should serve as an updated resource for otolaryngologists regarding cholesterol granulomas of the paranasal sinuses.