A case of acute invasive fungal sinusitis in an immunocompetent patient on glatiramer acetate therapy

Abstract

Acute invasive fungal sinusitis (AIFS) is a rapidly progressing, life-threatening infection. The advent of immunomodulatory therapies has expanded the population susceptible to AIFS. In this case report, we describe a patient who defies the conventional profile of AIFS. This 70-year-old woman is immunocompetent and non-diabetic, with a history of multiple sclerosis (MS) and ongoing treatment with glatiramer acetate (GA), immunomodulator. She came to the emergency room due to acute vision changes, and images revealed an enhancing mass in the left pterygopalatine fossa. The diagnosis of AIFS was confirmed by biopsy in the operating room. Subsequently, anti-fungal therapies were initiated with a follow-up operative debridement. Follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (10 months since treatment) showed no progression of AIFS. GA was discontinued since the diagnosis, and MS has remained stable. Recognizing this unique group of atrisk patients is crucial, as early detection and treatment play a pivotal role in preventing significant morbidity and mortality.