A Sphenoid Mucocele with Bilateral Ophthalmic Symptoms / 대한이비인후과학회지

Mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus are relatively rare and it is difficult to dignose them with the history of the illness or with the physical examination alone. However, if it is not treated rapidly, it may give rise to visual loss, extraocular motor disturbance or other ophthalmic sequalae. Recently, we experienced a case of mucocele originating from the sphenoid sinus, which was managed by functional endonasal sinus surgery-marsupialization. We obtained satisfactory results after steroid treatments were applied on the post-operative visual disturbance of the left eye and the pre-operative occular motion disturbance of the right eye.

A Case of Compressive Optic Neuropathy Caused by Sphenoid Sinus Mucocele

One of causes of compressive optic neuropathy is the sphenoid mucoceles which occur when the dranage of sinus is blocked. Mucocele of sphenoid sinus is rare, compressive to optic nerve and often misdiagnosed as pituitary tumor. We experienced a case of sphenoid sinus mucocele causing progressive visual disturbance, visual field defect, exophthalmos and headache. Plain skull and brain CT scan demonstrated sphenoid sinus mucocele. The visual acuity and visual field dramatically improved after surgery. Therefore early accurate detection and early surgical treatment are emphasized.

Diagnosed and Treatment of Sphenoid Sinus Mucoceles with Intracranial Extension

Sphenoid sinus mucocele with the intracranial extension is a rare disease but should be included in the differential diagnosis of destructive changes of the sella turcica, since a seemingly harmful intracranial procedure may be attempted. With the use of CT scan and MRI, it can be diagnosed preoperatively with a much better accuracy. Three histologically-verified cases of sphenoid mucocele with intracranial extension developing headache, visual disturbance and/or amenorrhea are described with a review of the literatures. All cases were successfully operated upon by the intranasal procedure.