Unusual presentation of an asymptomatic pseudomeningocele within the sphenoid sinus

J Laryngol Otol. 2013 Dec;127(12):1238-41. doi: 10.1017/S0022215113002247. Epub 2013 Oct 15.

Abstract

Objective: We report the rare case of a 55-year-old woman with an asymptomatic left sphenoid sinus pseudomeningocele mimicking a mucocele.

Case report: A 55-year-old woman was found to have an incidental mass in the left sphenoid sinus on computed tomography. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the presence of a mucocele. A left endoscopic sphenoidotomy was performed to drain the mucocele. Despite an anatomical puncture through a stenosed sphenoid ostium, alarmingly, the opening leaked cerebrospinal fluid. A dehiscent lateral wall was identified with a dural opening communicating with the sphenoid sinus. This was immediately repaired with a free nasal septal mucosal graft. Six months post-operatively, the patient remained free from cerebrospinal fluid leakage.

Conclusion: Pseudomeningoceles are extremely rare in the absence of trauma or iatrogenic injury. Surgeons should be alert to their presence as they can mimic a unilateral mucocele or nasal polyp. Endoscopic management lends itself to a single-stage repair.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Drainage / adverse effects
  • Drainage / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidental Findings
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Middle Aged
  • Mucocele / diagnosis*
  • Mucocele / diagnostic imaging
  • Mucocele / surgery
  • Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery* / methods
  • Sphenoid Sinus / abnormalities*
  • Sphenoid Sinus / diagnostic imaging*
  • Sphenoid Sinus / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Contrast Media