Tumefactive fibroinflammatory lesion of the frontal sinus

J Laryngol Otol. 2010 Nov;124(11):1212-5. doi: 10.1017/S0022215110001271. Epub 2010 Jun 8.

Abstract

Objective: A 65-year-old man presented with a nine-month history of swelling in the midline of the forehead. After surgical intervention, this lesion was found to be a tumefactive fibroinflammatory lesion of the frontal sinus. This case report and review aims to report this new location for tumefactive fibroinflammatory lesion, and to discuss whether, in retrospect, there would have been alternative options to surgery.

Methods: Case report and literature review.

Results: Tumefactive fibroinflammatory lesions are rare. Although cases in the sinonasal tract have been described, none involving the frontal sinus have previously been reported. A review of the literature suggests that these lesions have an association with other fibroinflammatory lesions, and may be amenable to systemic steroid therapy.

Conclusion: Each case should be managed on its merits, and a biopsy taken followed by subsequent screening for associated fibroinflammatory lesions. In the case of an isolated lesion, a surgical approach is probably favoured in a patient suitable for general anaesthesia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biopsy
  • Fibrosis
  • Frontal Sinus* / pathology
  • Frontal Sinus* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Paranasal Sinus Diseases* / diagnostic imaging
  • Paranasal Sinus Diseases* / pathology
  • Paranasal Sinus Diseases* / surgery
  • Prednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Radiography

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Prednisolone