Medical Information on Allergic Fungal Sinusitis

"According to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, 10 to 15 million people in the United States suffer from sinusitis every year. Most cases of sinusitis result from viral or bacterial infections; however, mold and fungi can cause a more severe form of sinusitis known as allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS). Aspergillus is the predominant fungus that contributes to AFS. While common, allergic fungal sinusitis is one of the least comprehensible types of fungal sinusitis; therefore, diagnosis is difficult.

Signs and Symptoms

• Symptoms of AFS include headache, alternating runny and stuffy nose, thick nasal discharge, nasal polyps, facial swelling and discomfort, bad breath and loss of balance.

Diagnosis

• Xrays and blood tests can reveal the presence of AFS. Allergen skin tests may determine the type of fungi causing the allergy. In addition, the presence of nasal polyps and thick mucous increase the chances for a diagnosis of AFS. "Nasal polyps are present in 85 percent of AFS patients, according to the Aspergillus Trust (Patient Advocates Group), an organization that examines the effects of the Aspergillus fungus.

Complications

• Complications of AFS include loss of the sense of smell, blocked air passages and lung infections.

Treatment Options

• Antibiotics, corticosteroids, fungus-fighting sprays or pills and environmental mold removal are the most common treatments for AFS. These options fight infection, reduce nasal swelling and lower the chances for symptom recurrence. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

Future Expectations

• While many patients improve with persistent steroidal treatment, AFS is typically a recurring disorder. Drugs that boost the immune system and continuous monitoring of environmental fungi and mold can make recurrence less frequent.