A Case of Huge Pneumatized Uncinate Process Causing Obstruction in Patient with Chronic Rhinosinusitis.
- Author:
Yun Ho KIM
1
;
In Sang KIM
;
Young Jun CHUNG
Author Information
1. Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Korea. docjung@paran.com
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Pneumatization;
Uncinate process;
Anatomical variation;
Sinusitis
- MeSH:
Humans;
Nasal Cavity;
Sinusitis;
Turbinates
- From:Korean Journal of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
2008;51(10):931-934
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Chronic rhinosinusitis is one of the most common diseases in rhinology. The importance of the ostiomeatal complex (OMC) has been known. Anatomic abnormalities and inflammatory changes lead to sinus ostial obstruction and subsequently induce chronic or recurrent sinusitis. Therefore, anatomic variations of the nasal cavity were considered as important factors in causing chronic rhinosinusitis. Whereas pneumatization of the middle and superior turbinate is a common finding, that of uncinate process is extremely rare. It can cause obstruction of the OMC by narrowing the middle meatus and infundibulum. We have recently experienced a huge pneumatized uncinate process causing obstruction in patient with chronic rhinosinusitis. We could successfully perform endoscopic sinus surgery with good results. Therefore, we present this rare case and briefly discuss the possible pathogenesis.
