Sphenoid Dysplasia & Sinus Infections

Dysplasia of the sphenoid bone may occur with sinus infection resulting to the condition manifested by intense headache. The involvement of the sphenoid bone with sinus infection may result to sphenoid sinusitis. Early diagnosis and treatment is vital as the condition can be progressive and may involve serious complications once left untreated.

Significance

• Sphenoid dysplasia involves a bone abnormality where sphenoid bone formation is incomplete. The sphenoid bone forms part of the eye socket and it has sinuses projecting down to the nasal cavity. Its malformation may be due to congenital defects or skull deficiency and it may be involved with sinus infection.

  Sinus infection may occur along the defective sphenoid bone, which results in the condition of sphenoid sinusitis. The American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery defines sinusitis as inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nasal sinuses, bone and cavities. When the inflammation affects the sphenoid bone, sphenoid sinus occurs which is one of the most challenging types of sinus infection that could lead to various complications.

Symptoms

• Diagnosing sphenoid sinusitis is often difficult due to the subtle manifestations of symptoms. The most common sign of the condition includes headache that may be intense enough to affect sleep, and even narcotics may not be able to provide relief. Fever may be present or rhinitis with pain deep in the eye area. Some may also feel hypoesthesia or less sensation along the face.

Complications

• Leaving the condition untreated may result in devastating complications that may involve neurologic, vascular and optic structures. In the presence of sphenoid dysplasia, sinus infection may easily reach close to the brain that may result in meningitis and chronically may form pus or abscess that may spread to the brain causing a life threatening condition. Mild inflammation of the eyelid that may lead to blindness can also occur. Vascular involvement may result in aneurysm or blood clots due to the involvement of the carotid artery. Asthma may also develop and there can be loss of sensation to smell and taste.

Treatment

• Once diagnosis has been established for sphenoid sinusitis, antibiotic is immediately administered along with decongestant as treatment within 24 hours. In the presence of serious complications, surgery is often indicated to establish drainage.

Prevention/Solution

• Simple measures such as drinking plenty of fluids can keep the nasal discharge thin. Also, sufferers should quit smoking, exercise gentle blowing of the nose, drink less alcohol and avoid extreme temperatures to prevent sinus infection.