Pneumocephalus: a rare presentation of Candida sphenoid sinusitis

Abstract

Pneumocephalus is uncommon and usually evident after head trauma or surgery. It is a rare complication of acute, isolated sphenoid sinusitis caused by fungus pathogens in an immunocompetent patient. We report on a 14-year-old healthy boy with acute, isolated sphenoid sinusitis caused by Candida albicans. Pneumocephalus was the initial overlooked presentation. Although uncommon, fungal disease should be considered in acute, isolated sphenoid sinusitis when pneumocephalus is discovered, even in immunocompetent patients. Failure to diagnose and treat this entity promptly usually results in rapid progression and death.