Paranasal sinus mucoceles: A narrative review

Abstract

Introduction: Paranasal sinus mucoceles are benign, expansile and cystic lesions lined with respiratory epithelium containing the mucoid substance. It may happen because of chronic obstruction of the ostia of the paranasal sinus. Mucus accumulation causes enlargement of the mucocele which is thought to be a sine qua non for a such clinical condition. Methods: A comprehensive review of literature was conducted to provide an overview of the current research on the topic, particularly focusing on the paranasal sinus mucoceles. Results: In this review, the epidemiology, aetiopathogenesis, clinical characteristics, diagnosis and current management of paranasal sinus mucoceles are covered. Discussion: The frontal and ethmoidal sinuses are involved more frequently than the maxillary or sphenoid sinuses, despite the possibility of mucoceles there. Paranasal sinus mucoceles may invade nearby vital structures like the orbit and skull base, leading to intraorbital and intracranial complications. The surrounding skeletal structures start to shrink as pressure from the mucocele's ongoing swelling increases, which prompts more bone resorption and remodelling. Depending on where the obstruction is located, thinning of the bone wall over time may permit enlargement of the mucocele in the orbit, nasopharynx and skull. The sole treatment for mucoceles is surgery. With little morbidity and a low recurrence rate, endoscopic surgical techniques for intranasal drainage and mucocele marsupialisation have been combined as the optimum methods for definitive treatment.