A Brief Clinical Study: Consecutive Occurences of Frontal Sinus Pneumocele

J Craniofac Surg. 2024 Mar-Apr;35(2):e191-e193. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000009953. Epub 2024 Jan 17.

Abstract

Sinus pneumocele is a rare condition marked by pathologic expansion of a paranasal sinus with concomitant bone loss. Here, we describe the case of a 24-year-old male who first presented with a 2×3 cm bony projection of his right medial forehead. Exam and history were notably absent for any skin tethering, prior trauma, inflammation, or neurological symptoms. A computed tomography scan confirmed the prominence was secondary to an enlarged right frontal sinus. The pneumocele was successfully corrected through surgery, but the patient notably developed a similar presentation on the left frontal sinus nearly 1 year later. Clinical findings support a hypothesis of air trapping through mucosal thickening. This second pneumocele was managed similarly.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Endoscopy
  • Frontal Sinus* / diagnostic imaging
  • Frontal Sinus* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Paranasal Sinus Diseases* / diagnostic imaging
  • Paranasal Sinus Diseases* / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
  • Young Adult