ALLERGIC RHIZOMUCOR SINUSITIS

Dr. Marc F. Goldstein: In conclusion, AFS is a benign noninvasive disease of the paranasal sinuses that can be caused by a variety of fungal organisms. This report highlights the first case of AFS caused by Rhizomucor. Recognition of AFS as a distinct clinicopathologic entity separate from other causes of clinical and radiographic sinusitis, especially invasive fungal sinusitis and neoplasm, is important. The clinical diagnosis of AFS needs to be considered in the differential diagnosis of chronic refractory sinusitis if surgical specimens are to be properly analyzed both histologically and microbiologically. Proper diagnosis is important to ensure optimal therapy, including surgical debridement and oral corticosterois. In addition, accurate diagnosis avoids the unnecessary use of antifungal drugs or radical surgical procedures or both. © 1992 Mosby-Year Book, Inc. All rights reserved.