Publication:

Beyond the sinus: orbital extension of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis – a case report and literature review

Orbital complications of acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) are rare but potentially life-threatening, particularly in children. Due to anatomical factors such as thinner bony partitions, increased vascularity, and underdeveloped sinuses, children are more vulnerable to orbital extension of sinonasal infections. Early diagnosis and prompt management are crucial to prevent severe outcomes including vision loss or intracranial spread. We report a case of 4 year old boy presenting with fever, periorbital swelling, and headache secondary to ARS, imaging with contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) scan, successfully managed with endoscopic drainage and medical therapy. Early diagnosis and prompt management are critical in paediatric ARS to prevent vision-threatening or life-threatening complications. A multidisciplinary approach, imaging, targeted antibiotic therapy, and timely surgical intervention contribute to improved outcome. Prompt recognition and combined medical-surgical treatment of orbital complications in paediatric ARS are essential for a favourable prognosis.