How is invasive fungal sinusitis diagnosed?

Since diagnosis requires biopsies to establish tissue invasion by fungi, early endoscopic evaluation with biopsy of healthy and diseased tissue and culture of sinus contents is required when invasive fungal sinusitis is suspected 8, 9.

Can a CT scan detect fungal sinusitis?

Computed tomography (CT) scan shows maxillary sinus opacification, erosion of orbital floor, and erosion of zygoma. The diagnosis of chronic invasive fungal rhinosinusitis is confirmed at surgery when histopathology shows fungal hyphae infiltrating mucosa, blood vessels, or bone.

What tests are used to diagnose sinusitis?

Advertisement

• Nasal endoscopy. A thin, flexible tube (endoscope) with a fiber-optic light inserted through your nose allows your doctor to visually inspect the inside of your sinuses.
• Imaging studies. A CT scan shows details of your sinuses and nasal area.
• Nasal and sinus samples.
• Allergy testing.

Does Aspergillus cause sinusitis?

Abstract. Allergic Aspergillus sinusitis is a type of allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS), a form of chronic rhinosinusitis with pathological findings similar to those seen in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). There are no evidence-based criteria for diagnosis or management, and the pathogenesis is unknown.

How are skin tests used to diagnose Aspergillus?

You will need to lie still on a narrow table, which slides into the centre of the CT scanner where the X-rays rotate around you. A scan normally takes only a few minutes. A skin test where a small needle is used to scratch the surface of the skin can be used to detect whether a patient has circulating IgE antibodies specific for Aspergillus.

Are there two types of Aspergillus sinusitis?

Two distinct types of Aspergillus sinusitis exist, both in people who have healthy immune systems: Allergic fungal sinusitis (or eosinophilic fungal rhinosinusitis). Total obstruction of the sinuses due to inflamed mucosa. Image taken from Aspergillus.org

How is fungal sinusitis ( aspergillosis ) treated?

This condition is usually treated with steroids and surgery. The steroids are usually continued for some time, as reduction of inflammation inside the nasal passages and sinuses is important to allow natural drainage.

How to tell if you are allergic to Aspergillus mold?

Diagnosis. For the skin test, a small amount of aspergillus antigen is injected into the skin of your forearm. If your blood has antibodies to the mold, you’ll develop a hard, red bump at the injection site. Blood tests look for high levels of certain antibodies, which indicate an allergic response.