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Visual loss in patients with sphenoethmoidal cells

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 February 2015

J Rimmer ,
T Beale  and
V J Lund
J Rimmer*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Nose and Ear Hospital, London, UK
T Beale
Affiliation:
Department of Radiology, Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital, London, UK
V J Lund
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Nose and Ear Hospital, London, UK Ear Institute, University College London, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Ms Joanne Rimmer, Professorial Unit, Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital, 330 Gray's Inn Road, London WC1X 8DA, UK E-mail: rimmer.joanne@gmail.com
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Abstract

Background:

A sphenoethmoidal cell is a posterior ethmoid cell that pneumatises superiorly and/or laterally to the sphenoid sinus. Disease within such a cell may cause visual symptoms because of the close relationship of the optic nerve.

Case reports:

This paper reports four cases of chronic rhinosinusitis involving a sphenoethmoidal cell, two with visual loss. The management of such cases is discussed and the current literature is reviewed.

Conclusion:

Pathology within a sphenoethmoidal cell must be considered in cases of optic neuropathy. The presence of these cells may be relevant even in cases of seemingly uncomplicated rhinosinusitis as they are associated with a higher rate of optic nerve protrusion and dehiscence.

Keywords

Sphenoid SinusEthmoid SinusSinusitisMucoceleOptic Neuropathy

Information

Type
Clinical Records
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 129 , Issue 2 , February 2015 , pp. 198 - 201
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2015 

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