Pneumosinus Dilatans of the Frontal and Ethmoid Sinuses Presenting with Exophthalmos: A Case Report

Abstract

Aims: Pneumosinus Dilatans (PSD) is a rare condition characterized by an enlargement of the paranasal sinuses. Presentation of Case: We report a case of a 21-year-old male patient coming for a swelling of the frontal region and exophthalmos. The CT scan shows a pneumosinus dilatans of the frontal and ethmoid sinuses with an exophthalmos with chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps and had an endoscopic sinus surgery. The follow-up shows a regression of the swelling and persistent mild exophthalmos after a few months. Discussion: Pneumosinus Dilatans is a rare condition and its clinical presentation varies from asymptomatic patients to rhinologists with ocular symptoms. The aetiology and mechanism remain unclear and could be associated with other conditions. CT scan shows an enlarged sinus and may assess any other associated disorders. The treatment vary from non-surgical to surgical treatment which could be the endoscopic or external approach. Conclusion: Several theories on the etiology of PSD exist but its true etiology remains unclear. Because of the clinical heterogeneity, which varies from an asymptomatic to a condition with rhinological, ocular and neurological symptoms, the treatment depends on the clinical manifestations.