Fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus do not necessarily require an external approach for eradication of disease. We report 6 cases of fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus seen at UCLA Medical Center from 1980-1999, 4 of which were successfully treated with endoscopic intranasal sphenoidotomy and the other 2 through either a transseptal or transantral approach. Study Design and Methods: Case series. The medical records of 6 patients with fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus treated at UCLA Medical Center over a 20-year period (1980-1999) were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Six patients diagnosed with fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus were seen at UCLA Medical Center from 1980-1999. Endoscopic intranasal sphenoid sinusotomy was performed on 4 patients and a transseptal or transantral approach to the sphenoid sinus was used on the remaining 2 patients. No evidence of recurrent disease has been seen after up to 15 years of follow-up. Conclusions: When diagnosed early, functional endoscopic intranasal sphenoidotomy represents an effective mode of treatment for patients with fungal mucoceles of the sphenoid sinus, obviating the need for more aggressive surgical approaches.