Publication:

Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis: a clinical study in Srikakulam

Background Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis is one of the differential diagnoses for chronic bacterial rhinosinusitis. Recognition and understanding of this unique disease will lead to efficient diagnosis and treatment of this curable process. India being a tropical country, provides an apt environment for fungal growth, the clinical diagnosis of Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis should not be missed and should be thoroughly investigated and managed to prevent recurrence. The objective of the study was to verify the management protocol for allergic fungal rhinosinusitis, after surgical clearance with functional endoscopic sinus surgery and postoperative histopathological examination and to see the efficacy of steroid and antifungal treatmentMethods: A one year prospective study was considered with 28 patients from July 2016 to July 2017. Clinically suspected cases of rhinosinusitis depending upon their clinical presentation were subjected to nasal endoscopy, radiological examination and functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Postoperative histopathological examination was performed. Patients were followed up after giving steroid and antifungal treatment.

Results 28 cases were non-invasive. Aspergillus was found to be the most common isolate. The criteria responsible for good prognosis of allergic fungal rhinosinusitis management were mainly found to be functional endoscopic sinus surgery followed by topical corticosteroid therapy.

Conclusions Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis is a disease entity on the rise. Prompt diagnosis and intervention prevents recurrence and complications.