Localised invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis: characteristic features

Orbital floor defect caused by invasive aspergillosis: a case report and literature review

Fungal sinusitis is relatively rare, but it has become more common in recent years. When fungal sinusitis invades the orbit, it can cause proptosis, chemosis, ophthalmoplegia, retroorbital pain, and vision impairment. We present a case of an extensive orbital floor defect due to invasive fungal sinusitis. A 62-year-old man with hypertension and a history of lung adenocarcinoma, presented with right-side facial pain and swelling. On admission, the serum glucose level was 347 mg/dL, and hemoglobin A1c was 11.4%. A computed tomography scan and a Waters' view X-ray showed right maxillary sinusitis with an orbital floor defect. On hospital day 3, functional endoscopic sinus surgery was performed by the otorhinolaryngology team, and an aspergilloma in necrotic inflammatory exudate obtained during exploration. On hospital day 7, orbital floor reconstruction with a Medpor Titan surgical implant was done. In principle, the management of invasive sino- orbital fungal infection often begins with surgical debridement and local irrigation with an antifungal agent. Exceptionally, in this case, debridement and immediate orbital floor reconstruction were performed to prevent enophthalmos caused by the extensive orbital floor defect. The patient underwent orbital floor reconstruction and received intravenous and oral voriconazole. Despite orbital invasion, there were no ophthalmic symptoms or sequelae.

Misdiagnosis of fungal infections of the orbit

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the accuracy of the initial diagnosis in the case of fungal infections of the orbit and identify factors that may influence patient outcomes.

METHODS

An institutional review board-approved retrospective chart review was conducted across 2 large academic centres to identify cases of fungal infections involving the orbit from January 1, 1998, to November 15, 2019. Data collected included patient demographics, past medical history, examination findings, diagnosis, treatment, imaging, and outcomes.

RESULTS

Fifty cases of fungal infection involving the orbit were identified. Of these, 33 (66.0%) were initially misdiagnosed as nonfungal diagnoses. Sixteen patients (32.0%) received multiple initial diagnoses. The most common diagnoses on presentation were bacterial cellulitis (n = 12 of 50; 24.0%) and bacterial sinusitis (n = 12 of 50; 24.0%). These were followed by vascular and orbital inflammatory conditions (n = 9 of 50; 18.0%): 5 patients (10.0%) were clinically diagnosed with giant cell arteritis, 3 (6.0%) with nonspecific orbital inflammation, and 1 (2.0%) with optic neuritis. In this subset of patients, 77.8% (n = 7 of 9) were treated initially with systemic steroids. Additional initial diagnoses included neoplastic mass lesions, mucocele, dacryocystitis, cavernous sinus thrombosis, hemorrhage, tick-borne illness, allergic rhinitis, and allergic conjunctivitis. Misdiagnosis was significantly correlated with involvement of the masticator space on imaging (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Fungal infections of the orbit are misdiagnosed in 2 of 3 cases. Nearly 15% of patients who are later diagnosed with fungal disease of the orbit were initially treated with systemic steroids. Misdiagnosis is more frequent when the masticator space is involved.

Angioinvasive aspergillosis mimicking giant cell arteritis in an 81-year-old man with jaw pain and vision loss

The present case report focuses on an immunocompromised 81-year-old patient initially diagnosed with Waldenström’s disease. The patient experienced a gradual vision loss and jaw pain with high erythrocyte sedimentation rate. We first suspected giant cell arteritis, despite inconclusive assessment, including a negative temporal artery biopsy. We rapidly started a corticosteroid pulse therapy followed by high-dose corticosteroid therapy that was followed even after discharge from the hospital. The patient was readmitted 20 days later with severe left retro-orbital pain and progressive left vision loss. Clinical examination revealed complete left eyelid ptosis and unilateral blindness with fixed mydriasis and no eye movement. MRI showed signs of ischaemic optic neuropathy with lysis of the left ethmoid sinus wall; thus, indicating ischaemic optic neuropathy related to lymphoplasmacytic infiltration of Waldenström’s disease (Bing-Neel syndrome). Oncological treatment of ibrutinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, was then administered. Despite a favourable prognosis, no improvement was seen. An infectious aetiology was finally confirmed. The left sphenoid sinus biopsy highlighted an angioinvasive aspergillosis with rhino-orbital infiltration observed as ischaemic optic neuropathy. Oncologic treatment was discontinued and antifungal therapy with voriconazole was introduced, leading to a favourable radiological development and analgesic control, without ophtalmological improvement.

Sino-Orbital Aspergillosis in a Kidney Transplant Recipient

Sino-orbital aspergillosis is a rare and severe infection mostly seen in immunocompromised individuals in which diagnosis may be challenging with potentially life-threatening consequences. Infection usually starts in the paranasal sinuses with secondary spreading to the adjacent orbits. Here, we report the case of a kidney transplant recipient who presented with proven invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis resulting in irreversible loss of vision despite surgical management and antifungal therapy. We review the literature with a focus on clinical presentation, diagnostic tools, and recommended treatment in the context of kidney transplantation.

Orbital Apex Syndrome Secondary to Invasive Aspergillus Infection: A Case Series and Literature Review

BACKGROUND

Invasive fungal sinusitis carries high morbidity and mortality and often poses a diagnostic challenge. Orbital apex syndrome (OAS) is not an uncommon presentation in the setting of invasive fungal sinusitis. Delays in diagnosis and appropriate treatment can result in permanent visual dysfunction and, potentially, death. We present 2 cases of OAS secondary to invasive sinus aspergillosis, detailing the diagnostic process, treatment, and outcome for both patients. Subsequently, we present a review of the literature and combined analysis of our 2 patients plus 71 cases from previously published reports.

METHODS

Literature review was performed to identify demographic, diagnostic, clinical, and treatment data of patients with OAS caused by Aspergillus species.

RESULTS

The review resulted in 52 included articles with 71 patients, plus our 2 reported patients, leading to a total of 73 subjects included in the analysis. The average age of patients at presentation was 59.9 years. A combination of visual disturbance and pain (headache and/or periocular pain) was the most common presentation reported (46 cases; 63%). Diabetes mellitus was reported in 15 cases (21%), with more than half specifically noted to have poorly controlled diabetes. After diabetes, the second most common cause of immunocompromise was chronic steroid use (n = 13; 18%). Empiric antifungal treatment was started in 10 patients (14%), while 25 patients (34%) were first treated with systemic steroids due to a concern for an inflammatory etiology. Time to diagnosis from initial presentation was on average 7.4 weeks (range of 0.3-40 weeks). Approximately 78% of the cases (57 of 73) had biopsies with histology that confirmed Aspergillus fungal morphology, and 30/73 (41%) had diagnostic fungal cultures. The majority of the cases received monotherapy with intravenous (IV) amphotericin B (36 patients; 49%) and IV voriconazole (19 patients; 26%), with a combination of the 2 or more antifungal agents being used in 11 patients (15%). Forty patients (55%) showed signs of clinical improvement with treatment, while 33 (45%) patients did not experience any improvement or continued to deteriorate, and 23 (32%) died in the course of their reported follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The present cases illustrate well the challenge in the diagnosis and treatment of OAS due to invasive sinus aspergillosis. Our review and analysis of 73 cases support the notion that a high index of suspicion leading to early biopsy with histology and fungal culture is paramount for diagnosis. Early empiric antifungal treatment and debridement can potentially reduce morbidity and mortality.

Invasive Fungal Sinusitis with Ophthalmological Complications: Case Series and Review of the Literature

Invasive fungal sinusitis can lead to dramatic complications in immunocompromised patients and requires prompt diagnosis. Here we report three cases with ophthalmological complications secondary to invasive fungal sinusitis in immunocompromised patients. From an ophthalmological point of view, these cases illustrate different clinical presentations, evolutions, complications, treatments, prognoses, and highlight different pathophysiological mechanisms. Diagnoses were delayed in all cases. In none of the cases did patients recover better vision than counting fingers at 24 months follow up, and two patients died. This case series highlights key points useful for quickly recognising this highly morbid infection in immunocompromised patients.

Rare Diseases of the Orbit

This article provides an overview of rare orbital diseases. Congenital malformations, inflammatory diseases, benign and malignant neoplasias are described. Although it represents a relatively small area of the body the orbit contains multiple different tissues. Therefore, a great variety of diseases can be found within the orbital space. That is the reason, why both the completeness and the level of detail in the description of particular diseases must be somewhat limited. Nevertheless, clinical manifestations, important aspects of diagnosis, treatment strategies, and, when specific data are available, the prognosis are described. The authors tried to highlight the most characteristic aspects of the different diseases to describe their relevant aspects in spite of the brevity of the subsections.

Invasive fungal disease misdiagnosed as tumour in association with orbital apex syndrome

Invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis is a rare cause of orbital apex syndrome (OAS) in immunocompetent patients and often misdiagnosed as tumour because of its aggressive nature and invasive patterns. We report a 23-year-old immunocompetent man presenting with painful progressive loss of vision, ophthalmoplegia and proptosis of the right eye suggestive of OAS. MRI with gadolinium contrast showed an enhancing heterogeneous mass filling the paranasal sinuses, extraconal space and extending up to the right orbital apex. A functional endoscopic biopsy reported as invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis. He was started on intravenous voriconazole and maximal surgical debridement was done. He gradually regained his vision to 20/30 in the right eye. A review of literature reported several such cases which were managed medically or surgically but with poor visual recovery. This case highlights the need for awareness among clinicians for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent vision loss and better survival.

Orbital aspergillosis: a case report and review of the literature

Background

Orbital aspergillosis is a rare sight- and life-threatening fungal infection affecting immunocompromised or otherwise healthy patients. It is often misdiagnosed due to its unspecific clinical and radiologic appearance. Therapeutic delay can have dramatic consequences. However, progress in microbiological diagnostic techniques and therapeutic experience from case series help improve the management of this disease.

Case presentation

A 78-year-old immunocompetent woman presented at an eye clinic for subacute swelling, reddening, and ptosis of her left upper eyelid. Based on radiologic and histologic considerations, she was treated for idiopathic orbital inflammation, but her condition worsened. After a second biopsy of the orbital mass, aspergillosis was diagnosed. Her condition improved promptly after initiation of an oral voriconazole treatment. Additionally, using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, A. fumigatus was identified on tissue of both biopsies and its azole susceptibility was examined simultaneously.

Conclusions

In the case described here, oral antifungal treatment was sufficient for the therapy of invasive orbital aspergillosis. Performing fungal PCR on orbital tissue can accelerate the diagnostic process and should be performed in ambiguous cases of slowly growing orbital mass. Finally, interdisciplinary management is the key to optimal treatment of orbital tumours and infections.

Invasive rhino-orbital-cerebral aspergillosis in an immunocompetent patient

INTRODUCTION

Rhino-orbital-aspergillosis (ROA) is a rare but serious disease in immunocompetent patients. Diagnosis is often delayed due to the absence of specific clinical symptoms. We describe the case of a patient who presented initially with ROA which spread progressively to the right ethmoid-sphenoid sinuses and then to the brain.

OBSERVATION

A 61-year-old patient with a history of well-controlled diabetes presented with a sudden severe decrease in right visual acuity. Cerebral MRI showed the presence of an infiltrate in the right orbital apex extending to the homolateral cavernous sinus without any cerebral involvement. A diagnosis of right orbital myositis was made and corticosteroid therapy was started. His symptoms worsened progressively leading to quasi-blindness. A new MRI showed the development of right sphenoid-ethmoid osteolytic lesions. A fungal aetiology was suspected and tests for fungal biomarkers found a β-(1-3)-D-glucan level of 99pg/ml but negative galactomannan. An ethmoid biopsy was performed for histological and mycological investigations, including the detection of Aspergillus DNA by qPCR. qPCR was positive and culture resulted in the isolation of multi-sensitive Aspergillus fumigatus. Treatment was initiated with voriconazole. Due to persistence of blindness and the appearance of a lesion extending to the right frontal lobe, surgical excision was performed followed by antifungal treatment for a total duration of 1year. The patient is currently stable, but has persistence of blindness in the right eye.

CONCLUSION

Invasive ROA is a rare but serious disease in immunocompetent patients which should be evoked in the differential diagnosis of a tumour or vasculitis. Early diagnosis is essential for optimal management.

Cranial Nerve Imaging and Pathology

This review provides a symptom-driven approach to neuroimaging of disease processes affecting the cranial nerves. In addition to describing characteristic imaging appearances of a disease, the authors emphasize exceptions to the rules and neuroimaging pearls. The focus is on adult neurology although some important pediatric conditions are included. On reviewing this material, the reader should be able to (1) differentiate intra- and extra-axial causes of cranial nerve dysfunction and (2) appropriately use neuroimaging to investigate abnormalities of cranial nerve function.

The Difficulty of Diagnosing Invasive Aspergillosis Initially Manifesting as Optic Neuropathy

Background

Invasive aspergillosis is often fatal. Here, we report a patient with invasive aspergillosis primarily involving the optic nerve diagnosed on autopsy.

Case Presentation

A 77-year-old female with underlying diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension presented with disc swelling of the left eye. Although mini-pulse steroid therapy improved visual acuity (VA) of the left eye, it abruptly decreased to no light perception within a month, followed by a decrease in VA of the right eye to 0.5. At referral, VA was 0.3 in the right eye, and there was no light perception in the left eye.

Results

Fundus examination revealed optic disc swelling of both eyes. Goldmann perimetry showed irregular visual field defects, whereas magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), general, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examinations revealed no distinct abnormalities. We suspected anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and invasive optic neuropathy. As with the left eye, steroid pulse therapy temporarily improved VA of the right eye and then decreased to 0.2. Additional anticoagulant therapy did not improve VA. Concurrent to therapy, the patient became febrile with depressed consciousness. Repeat MRI identified suspected midbrain infarction, and CSF examination indicated cerebral meningitis. In spite of administering transfusions and antibiotics, she died on hospital day 40. Autopsy revealed large amounts of Aspergillus hyphae mainly localized in the dura mater of the optic nerve and destruction of the cerebral artery wall, suggesting an etiology of subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Conclusions

When examining refractory and persistent disc swelling, we should rule out fungal infections of the optic nerve.

Invasive sino-orbital fungal infections in immunocompetent patients: a clinico-pathological study

OBJECTIVE

Invasive sino-orbital fungal infections in immunocompetent patients are a rare clinical entity; the diagnosis and management of which is challenging. We present a large case series of invasive sino-orbital fungal granulomas in patients without pre-existing systemic immunocomprimising condition.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty cases of invasive sino-orbital/naso-orbital fungal granulomas in immunocompetent individuals.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed all patients with orbital fungal granuloma who were treated at a tertiary referral eye center in South India between January 2005 and December 2012. Histopathologic confirmation of tissue invasion by fungal elements and presence of granulomatous inflammation was established in all cases included in the study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Relief of patient symptoms, resolution/no progression of disease on orbital imaging, ocular, and vision salvage were the treatment outcomes studied.

RESULTS

Twenty patients (11 male and 9 female) were studied. Mean age of patients was 47.4 years ranging from 24-65 years. Aspergillus was the causative fungus in 18 cases while 2 were cases of mucormycosis. Surgical debulking of the orbital disease was performed in 7 patients. Exenteration was performed in 2 patients to prevent spread to the CNS. Medical therapy consisted of oral itraconazole in all patients and intravenous amphotericin B was administered in 2 patients. Average duration of medical therapy required to achieve relief from symptoms was 6-8 months. Recurrences are common and long-term follow-up is essential.

CONCLUSIONS

Orbital fungal infections are challenging in terms of both diagnosis and treatment. Debulking along with prolonged antifungal therapy seems to be effective in controlling the infection.

Improving the rates of Aspergillus detection: an update on current diagnostic strategies

INTRODUCTION

The spectrum of disease caused by Aspergillus spp. is dependent on the immune system of the host, and ranges from invasive aspergillosis (IA) to chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA). Early and reliable diagnosis of Aspergillus disease is important to decrease associated morbidity and mortality. Areas covered: The following review will give an update on current diagnostic strategies for the diagnosis of IA and CPA. Expert commentary: Several new diagnostics for IA (including point-of-care tests) are now available to complement galactomannan testing. In particular, immunoPET/MRI imaging may be a promising approach for diagnosing IA in the near future. Notably, nearly all new biomarkers and tests for IA have been evaluated in the hematology setting only. Validation of biomarkers and tests is therefore needed for the increasing proportion of patients who develop IA outside the hematology setting. As an important first step, reliable definitions of IA are needed for non-hematology settings as clinical presentation and radiologic findings differ in these settings. CPA diagnosis is based on a combination of radiological findings in chest CT, mycological evidence (e.g. by the Aspergillus-specific IgG assay), exclusion of alternative diagnosis and chronicity. ([18F]FDG) PET/CT and immuno PET/MRI imaging are promising new imaging approaches.

Orbital apex syndrome secondary to aspergilloma masquerading as a paranasal sinus tumor: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Orbital apex syndrome is a complex clinical disorder featuring a collection of cranial nerve deficits characterized by impairment of the extraocular muscles, the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve, and even the optic nerve. Sino-orbital aspergillosis is rare but aggressive infection. Surgical resection accompanied by antifungal medication is advised currently.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report a 61-year-old woman diagnosed as aspergilloma presenting with the characteristic manifestations and imaging features of orbital apex syndrome.

DIAGNOSES

Paranasal sinus tumor was misdiagnosed initially according to magnetic resonance imaging of the orbit. Finally aspergilloma was diagnosed by pathologic report.

INTERVENTIONS

The anti-fungal medication, voriconazole, was administered immediately. Surgical excision was also done due to the poor response to medical treatment.

OUTCOMES

Postoperative follow-up showed no recurrence of aspergillosis but the vision was lost permanently.

LESSONS

Invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis as an aggressive disease with highly invasive patterns and it may be misdiagnosed as tumors. To achieve better prognosis and survival, clinicians should be aware of this distinct manifestation.

Different Presentations of Ophthalmic Aspergillosis

Purpose

Aspergillus species is found worldwide and does not normally cause disease. However, when the immune system is compromised, it can invade many organs and be responsible for severe disease. The authors present cases with both classical and atypical features of ophthalmic aspergillosis.

Methods

Case series of three patients.

Results

All patients were female and had a long history of methylprednisolone use. The first two presented with endogenous endophthalmitis. One case was unilateral with a classical presentation of endophthalmitis. The other presented with a very severe bilateral acute retinal necrosis like syndrome. General work-up revealed disseminated disease in both cases. The diagnosis was made by serum immunologic testing in one case and after direct examination and culture from vitrectomy in the other. Despite intense antimycotic therapy, both patients died. The third patient presented with a unilateral progressive painful orbital apex syndrome. An orbital lesion was demonstrated by computed tomography scan and was unresponsive to methylprednisolone. Diagnosis of sino-orbital syndrome was made on biopsy. The lesion responded poorly to different antimycotic therapies, invaded the chiasma, and the patient lost all visual acuity.

Conclusions

This case series illustrates that ophthalmic aspergillosis can present acutely with a devastating intraocular inflammation or more indolently in the setting of sino-orbital aspergillosis. Both forms have a poor visual prognosis and the systemic form is frequently associated with a fatal outcome.

Rare Orbital Infections ~ State of the Art ~ Part II

Infections of the orbit and periorbita are relatively frequent. Identifying unusual organisms is crucial because they can cause severe local and systemic morbidity, despite their rarity. Opportunistic infections of the orbit should be considered mainly in debilitated or immunocompromised patients. The key to successful management includes a high index of suspicion, prompt diagnosis, and addressing the underlying systemic disease. This review summarizes unusual infectious processes of the orbit, including mycobacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections, as well as their pathophysiology, symptoms, signs, and treatment.

Central nervous system fungal infection in a young male with a history of intravenous drug abuse and hepatitis C

A young male, with a known history of hepatitis C and heroin abuse, was admitted to the emergency department with altered sensorium, left-sided weakness, and no meningeal signs. Initial computed tomography imaging showed hypodensity involving right basal ganglia with mass effect but no hemorrhage. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple nonenhancing small foci of restricted diffusion involving the right basal ganglia, T2 and FLAIR hyperintensity within the right basal ganglia, and internal capsule with mild surrounding edema. The patient was treated for encephalitis and atypical stroke given the history of intravenous drug abuse. Follow-up imaging showed worsening of the brain lesions, with involvement of the contralateral basal ganglia with necrosis and peripheral enhancement. Brain biopsy was ultimately performed and suggested infection with Aspergillus species and associated parenchymal infarction. The patient was treated with voriconazole with subsequent significant clinical improvement.

Optic Neuropathy and Stroke Secondary to Invasive Aspergillus in an Immunocompetent Patient

Angioinvasive aspergillosis is an aggressive fungal infection that is potentially life threatening without prompt treatment. Optic nerve involvement of Aspergillus can mimic optic neuritis commonly seen in demyelinating and other inflammatory conditions. Treatment of Aspergillus infection with steroids may worsen the clinical course. We describe a unique case of disseminated central nervous system aspergillosis, initially presenting as an optic neuropathy, with subsequent stroke in multiple vascular territories.

Invasive fungal sinusitis: treatment of the orbit

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize diagnostic techniques for invasive fungal rhinosinusitis and provide a review of treatment options once disease has spread to the orbit.

RECENT FINDINGS

Improved imaging criteria, polymerase chain reaction and other serologic tests show promise in advancing our ability to accurately diagnose invasive fungal disease. Currently, there exists three treatment options for infected orbital tissue: exenteration, conservative debridement and transcutaneous retrobulbar injection of amphotericin B. Exenteration, the most frequently reported intervention, has not been proven to enhance survival. Conservative debridement and transcutaneous retrobulbar injection of amphotericin B are increasingly considered reasonable first-line options.

SUMMARY

Although investigative tools are improving, invasive fungal rhinosinusitis can still pose a diagnostic challenge. No one treatment option for the orbit has been proven superior to another. Therefore, it is justified to initiate therapy by prioritizing less morbid procedures. If deterioration is continually noted, more invasive interventions can then be employed. The treatment algorithm established at our institution is provided.

Fungal infections of the orbit

Fungal infections of the orbit can lead to grave complications. Although the primary site of inoculation of the infective organism is frequently the sinuses, the patients can initially present to the ophthalmologist with ocular signs and symptoms. Due to its varied and nonspecific clinical features, especially in the early stages, patients are frequently misdiagnosed and even treated with steroids which worsen the situation leading to dire consequences. Ophthalmologists should be familiar with the clinical spectrum of disease and the variable presentation of this infection, as early diagnosis and rapid institution of appropriate therapy are crucial elements in the management of this invasive sino-orbital infection. In this review, relevant clinical, microbiological, and imaging findings are discussed along with the current consensus on local and systemic management. We review the recent literature and provide a comprehensive analysis. In the immunocompromised, as well as in healthy patients, a high index of suspicion must be maintained as delay in diagnosis of fungal pathology may lead to disfiguring morbidity or even mortality. Obtaining adequate diagnostic material for pathological and microbiological examination is critical. Newer methods of therapy, particularly oral voriconazole and topical amphotericin B, may be beneficial in selected patients.

Aspergillus Secondary Metabolite Database, a resource to understand the Secondary metabolome of Aspergillus genus

Aspergillus is a genus of ubiquitous fungi that are pathologically & therapeutically important. Aspergillus Secondary Metabolites Database (A2MDB) is a curated compendium of information on Aspergillus & its secondary metabolome. A2MDB catalogs 807 unique non-redundantsecondary metabolites derived from 675 Aspergillus species. A2MDB has a compilation of 100 cellular targets of secondary metabolites, 44 secondary metabolic pathways, 150 electron and light microscopy images of various Aspergillus species. A phylogenetic representation of over 2500 strains has been provided. A2MDB presents a detailed chemical information of secondary metabolites and their mycotoxins. Molecular docking models of metabolite-target protein interactions have been put together. A2MDB also has epidemiological data representing Aspergillosis and global occurrence of Aspergillus species. Furthermore a novel classification of Aspergillosis along with 370 case reports with images, were made available. For each metabolite catalogued, external links to related databases have been provided. All this data is available on A2MDB, launched through Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India, as an open resource http://www.iictindia.org/A2MDB. We believe A2MDB is of practical relevance to the scientific community that is in pursuit of novel therapeutics.

Mucormycosis of the Frontal Sinus: A Rare Case Report and Review

Mucormycosis of the frontal sinus are rarely seen in day to day clinical practice. Although this fungus is commonly found in the environment, the disease is usually prevented by the immune system and is hence rare. Well-recognized risk factors for the disease include diabetes mellitus, leukemia, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, blood dyscrasias, and immunosuppressive therapy in organ transplantation, renal disease, sepsis, and severe burns. The disease is primarily found in those who are immunocompromised, but it may also manifest in immuno competent persons. Current therapy for the invasive disease includes early surgical debridement, antifungal therapy management of underlying predisposing factors. Early recognition of the disease and treating the underlying cause of mucormycosis, such as diabetes, are key to improving outcomes. The antifungal treatment of choice for mucormycosis is amphotericin B, although very high doses are required because of the relative resistance of the fungus to the drug. Here, we present a case of rhinocerebral mucormycosis of frontal sinus in a diabetic patient, who was managed by systemic antifungals, surgical debridement, and obliteration procedures.

Dacryocystitis As the Initial Presentation of Invasive Fungal Sinusitis in Immunocompromised Children

Sino-orbital fungal infection is a rare, but life-threatening disease seen mainly in immunocompromised patients. While initial clinical impression may vary, dacryocystitis has rarely been described as the initial presenting sign. The authors present 2 pediatric cases of dacryocystitis as the initial sign of invasive fungal sinusitis. To their knowledge, this presenting sign has not been previously reported in the pediatric population. Management strategies and outcomes are discussed.

Invasive Orbital Apex Aspergillosis with Mycotic Aneurysm Formation and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Immunocompetent Patients

BACKGROUND

Invasive orbital apex aspergillosis (IOAA) is an aggressive form of aspergillus infection that usually affects immunocompromised patients. It can cause orbital apex syndrome and, if not treated promptly, may progress rapidly causing fatal complications. Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) secondary to ruptured mycotic aneurysms is a very rare complication of invasive aspergillosis. We aim to describe our management and the outcome of six immunocompetent patients with IOAA with subsequent SAH secondary to ruptured mycotic aneurysms.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was undertaken of charts of patients treated for orbital involvement with aspergillosis between January 2003 and December 2015 at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. We identified all immunocompetent patients with IOAA who developed vascular complications.

RESULTS

Six immunocompetent patients with IOAA complicated by SAH secondary to ruptured mycotic aneurysms were identified in the study period. Four patients were female, and patients' age ranged between 14 and 53 years (mean, 33.7 ± 13.4 years). All patients presented with progressive retro-orbital headache, visual impairment, and ophthalmoplegia; four had proptosis. Two patients had vasospasm and brain infarction. Antifungal therapy was used in all patients, and 4 underwent emergency craniotomy and clipping of an aneurysm. Five patients died as a consequence of SAH and infarction.

CONCLUSIONS

IOAA is a serious disease that commonly causes catastrophic and fatal vascular complications.

Seven cases of localized invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis

PURPOSE

To describe the clinical manifestations and prognoses in 7 patients with invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis (ISOA).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of consecutive patients who were diagnosed as having ISOA at the Gifu University Hospital and Gifu Municipal Hospital between January 1993 and December 2015. Data were collected on demographics, initial manifestations, examination findings, treatments, clinical course, and outcomes.

RESULTS

The median age of the 7 patients with ISOA was 68 years; 5 of them had diabetes. The initial symptoms were reduced blurred vision (57%), unilateral headaches (43%), unilateral abnormal sensations or numbness of the periorbital area (43%), and external ophthalmoplegia (43%). The medical department that the patients first visited was the ophthalmology department in 57% of the cases. The initial CT showed bone destruction in 71% and calcification in 14% of the patients. Six of the 7 cases were misdiagnosed. The definitive diagnosis of ISOA was made by histopathologic examinations of the biopsy specimens, with an average of 2.6 biopsies. All patients received aggressive antifungal treatments after the diagnosis. However, the final visual outcome was no light perception in 86% and death related to the ISOA in 43% of the patients. Patients who were older at the onset had lower survival rates.

CONCLUSIONS

The prognosis for patients with ISOA is poor in terms of both vision and life. Ophthalmologists are often the first examiner. ISOA should be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients with a gradually progressive orbital mass, unilateral headaches, numbness of the periorbital area, and a decrease in visual acuity of unknown origin.

Isolated Orbital Aspergillosis in Immunocompetent Patients: A Multicenter Study

OBJECTIVE

To report clinicopathologic features, radiologic findings, and treatment outcomes of isolated, orbital aspergillosis.

DESIGN

Multicenter, retrospective case series.

METHODS

setting: Multicenter.

PARTICIPANTS

There were 8 lesions in 8 eyes of 8 patients with isolated, orbital aspergillosis.

PROCEDURE

Review of medical records and histopathology slides.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Disease control.

RESULTS

Of 34 patients with orbital aspergillosis, 8 (23.5%) had isolated orbital involvement at presentation. The mean age at presentation was 34.5 years (median, 43 years: range, 0.5-72 years). Gradually progressive proptosis and eyelid swelling were the most common presenting features (each 4/8). Proptosis ranged from 4 mm to 9 mm (median, 5.5 mm; mean, 5.75 mm). Restriction of ocular motility was seen in all 8 patients. Other examination findings included palpable mass (2/8), conjunctival chemosis (2/8), hyperglobus (1/8), hypoglobus (1/8), and resistance to retropulsion (1/8). Microbial culture results were available in 1 patient and showed Aspergillus fumigatus. Two patients were treated with complete surgical excision alone while 6 were treated with antifungal medications. Complete resolution of proptosis and restoration of ocular motility were seen in all patients following treatment. Visual disturbances present in 1 were corrected following treatment. Recurrence was observed in 1 patient.

CONCLUSION

Isolated orbital aspergillosis, though rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a patient presenting with a gradually progressive orbital mass, especially in Asian individuals. Early recognition will help reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this disease.

Apical Orbital Aspergillosis Complicating Giant Cell Arteritis

A 75-year-old woman with new onset headaches and left vision loss, temporal scalp tenderness, and jaw claudication was found to have biopsy-proven giant cell arteritis (GCA). Despite treatment and improvement with prednisone, she later developed left orbital apex syndrome, and an orbital biopsy revealed aspergillosis. After antifungal treatment, extraocular motility improved although vision in the left eye remained no light perception. Clinicians should be aware that fungal orbital apex disease may mimic or complicate steroid-treated GCA.

Malignant fungal infection of the cavernous sinus: case report

Intracranial spread of fungal infection is a life-threatening condition that usually affects immunocompromised patients. Here the authors present a case of biopsy-proven Aspergillus fumigatus infection of the paranasal sinuses in an immunocompetent patient with documented spread to the orbit, cavernous sinus, and petrous apex despite medical antifungal treatment. As a life-saving treatment, cavernous sinus resection with external carotid artery-middle cerebral artery bypass was performed. The authors discuss the literature regarding the intracranial spread of paranasal sinus fungal infections in immunocompetent patients and management strategies.

Invasive fungal disease of the sinus and orbit: a comparison between mucormycosis and Aspergillus

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Invasive fungal infections of the head and neck are rare life-threatening infections where prompt diagnosis and intervention is critical for survival. The aim of this study is to determine the clinical characteristics and outcomes of invasive fungal disease of the sinus and orbit, and to compare mucormycosis and Aspergillus infection.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted from a single tertiary care eye and ear hospital over 20 years (1994-2014). Twenty-four patients with a confirmed pathological diagnosis of invasive fungal disease of the sinus and/or orbit were identified and their medical records were reviewed. The main outcome measures were type of fungus, location of disease, mortality and visual outcome.

RESULTS

Patients with orbital involvement had a higher mortality and higher likelihood of mucormycosis infection compared with those with sinus-only disease (78.6% vs 20%, p=0.01; 86% vs 30%, p=0.01, respectively). Patients with mucormycosis had a higher mortality (71%) than patients with Aspergillus (29%); however, this was not statistically significant (p=0.16). All patients with orbital involvement and/or mucormycosis infections were immunosuppressed or had inadequately controlled diabetes, and had a cranial neuropathy or ocular motility dysfunction. All five post-transplant patients with orbital infections died, while the two transplant patients with sinus infections survived.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with orbital fungal infections are more likely to be infected with mucormycosis compared with Aspergillus and have a higher mortality compared with infections sparing the orbit. History of transplant portends a dismal prognosis in orbital infections. Invasive fungal disease should be considered in any immunocompromised patient presenting with a new cranial neuropathy or ocular motility abnormality.

Computed tomographic features of feline sino-nasal and sino-orbital aspergillosis

Feline upper respiratory tract aspergillosis (URTA) occurs as two distinct anatomical forms, namely, sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA) and sino-orbital aspergillosis (SOA). An emerging pathogen, Aspergillus felis, is frequently involved. The pathogenesis of URTA, in particular the relationship between the infecting isolate and outcome, is poorly understood. In this study, computed tomography was used to investigate the route of fungal infection and extension in 16 cases (SNA n = 7, SOA n = 9) where the infecting isolate had been identified by molecular testing. All cases had nasal cavity involvement except for one cat with SNA that had unilateral frontal sinus changes. There was a strong association between the infecting species and anatomic form (P = 0.005). A. fumigatus infections remained within the sino-nasal cavity, while cryptic species infections were associated with orbital and paranasal soft-tissue involvement and with orbital lysis. Cryptic species were further associated with a mass in the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses or nasopharynx. Orbital masses showed heterogeneous contrast enhancement, with central coalescing hypoattenuating foci and peripheral rim enhancement. Severe, cavitated turbinate lysis, typical of canine SNA, was present only in cats with SNA. These findings support the hypothesis that the nasal cavity is the portal of entry for fungal spores in feline URTA and that the route of extension to involve the orbit is via direct naso-orbital communication from bone lysis. Additionally, a pathogenic role for A. wyomingensis and a sinolith in a cat with A. udagawae infection are reported for the first time.

Arcanobacterium hemolyticum orbital cellulitis: a rare but aggressive disease

The clinical presentation and course of orbital cellulitis in a young adult resulting from Arcanobacterium hemolyticum frontal sinusitis are presented in detail. This case illustrates the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for refractory and aggressive orbital cellulitis. A high level of suspicion for A. hemolyticum must be maintained in such cases, because it has proven to be a rare but aggressive, potentially occult, and life-threatening pathogen.

Acute chiasmal abscess resulting from perineural extension of invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis in an immunocompetent patient

OBJECTIVE

Intracranially invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis is a rare entity seen predominantly in immunocompromised individuals. We report a unique case of an acute chiasmal abscess resulting from perineural extension of an indolent invasive sino-orbital aspergillosis in an immunocompetent patient.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 61-year-old healthy Ukrainian man presented with severe left retro-orbital pain and a gradual ipsilateral monocular vision loss with rapid progression to a contralateral temporal visual field cut. He was found to have an intracranially invasive sino-orbital Aspergillus fumigatus infection with perineural extension along the optic nerve complicated by an acute chiasmal abscess.

RESULTS

The patient was managed with surgical debridement and adjuvant antifungal chemotherapy. The patient's life and vision were preserved.

CONCLUSIONS

The case demonstrates that it is possible to successfully control advanced intracranial aspergillosis with tissue-sparing surgery and adjuvant antifungal chemotherapy in immunocompetent individuals.