Sphenoid sinus aspergilloma in trans-sphenoidal surgery for pituitary adenomas

Abstract

Background: Simultaneous appearance of sphenoid sinus aspergilloma and pituitary adenoma is a very rare finding.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of patients with sellar and sphenoid sinus mass lesions who underwent trans-sphenoidal surgery was performed. Demographic data, medical history, predisposing factors, clinical picture, neurological status and radiological findings were reviewed. All patients underwent a trans-sphenoidal microsurgical treatment, and acquired specimens underwent both histopathological and microbiological analysis.

Results: Sphenoid sinus aspergilloma was encountered in seven patients. Three patients had an isolated sphenoid sinus aspergilloma and four patients with pituitary macroadenoma had a sphenoid aspergilloma as an incidental finding.

Conclusions: Sphenoid sinus aspergilloma can be found during trans-sphenoidal surgery for pituitary adenomas. Sphenoid sinus extirpation followed by adenomectomy is the treatment of choice unless invasive aspergilloma is encountered requiring additional antifungal therapy.