Fronto-ethmoidal mucocele with orbital extension, about a case at the Maradi Reference Hospital.

Abstract

Introduction :
Mucoceles are benign and rare cystic tumors, primarily affecting adults. They result from an obstruction of sinus ventilation. Diagnosis is based on computed tomography or, preferably, magnetic resonance imaging. We report a case diagnosed at the reference hospital in Maradi.

Observation :
The patient is a 54-year-old female with a history of sinusitis for two months, presenting with headaches and ocular redness. Ophthalmological examination revealed unilateral left exophthalmos, non-axial, non-reducible, of inflammatory appearance, without signs of intraocular compression. Orbital-cerebral computed tomography showed an isodense formation filling the left frontal sinus, the ipsilateral anterior ethmoidal cells, and the left orbit, associated with grade 2 exophthalmos. There was evidence of lysis of the frontal bone wall and the left orbital rim, with intra-orbital extension. The diagnosis was established as a left fronto-ethmoidal mucocele complicated by grade 2 exophthalmos. Management involved an incision at the tail of the eyebrow, subperiosteal dissection, decortication of the anterior wall of the left frontal sinus, aspiration of the cystic content, followed by enucleation of the sinus mucosa, irrigation, and suturing. The postoperative course was satisfactory.

Conclusion :
Sinus mucocele is a rare pathology, often revealed by ophthalmological signs. A thorough understanding of this clinical entity allows for early diagnosis, thereby preventing complications that may compromise visual prognosis.