Fungal Sinusitis 

Overview
The sinuses are cavities within the skull around the nose, under the bones of the cheeks and forehead. Two distinct types of Aspergillus sinusitis exist, both in people who have healthy immune systems.

Symptoms 

  • Difficulty breathing through the nose 
  • Thick green mucous from the nose 
  • Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of the throat from the nose) 
  • Headaches 
  • Loss of taste or smell 
  • Facial pressure/pain 

Diagnosis 

  • Blood tests 
  • CT Scan 
  • Nasal endoscopy 

Further information

Allergic Fungal Rhinosinusitis 

Occurs as a result of an allergic reaction to aspergillus fungi. 

Treatment 

  • Steroid medication 
  • Endoscopic sinus surgery 

Prognosis 

Fungal sinusitis can be prone to reoccurrence. 

Saprophytic Sinusitis

This occurs when aspergillus fungus grows on top of mucus inside the nose – absorbing the mucous as a form of nutrition. The fungus is effectively “living” off the mucus in the nose. 

Treatment 

Removal of mucous crusts and fungal growth. 

Prognosis 

Fungal sinusitis can be prone to reoccurrence.