Muco-Pyocele of Sphenoidal Sinus or Posterior Ethmoidal Cells with Special Reference to the Apex Orbitae Syndrome

Abstract

Almost 60 cases of mucocele of the sphenoidal and posterior ethmoidal sinuses have been described in the literature. Two new eases are added. The necessity for early diagnosis is emphasized if irreparable damage to one or both eyes is to be prevented. Rhinological examination was informative in one third of the cases. Ophthalmological examination may draw the attention to the apex orbitae. If the examiner is aware of the existence of such a condition, thorough radiological investigation including tomography will, as a rule, give a clear and confident diagnosis. Surgical therapy is best accomplished by endonasal drainage by a transmaxillary approach and not by craniotomy.