Staphylococcus epidermidis isolated sphenoiditis: a rare cause of recurrent orbital apex syndrome

Authors

  • Georges Fayad Department of Otolaryngology, CHU Saint-Pierre, Brussels, Belgium
  • Gaëtan Cavelier Department of Otolaryngology, CHU Saint-Pierre, Brussels, Belgium
  • Marie Verhasselt Department of Otolaryngology, CHU Saint-Pierre, Brussels, Belgium
  • Alejandra Rodriguez Department of Otolaryngology, CHU Saint-Pierre, Brussels, Belgium
  • Mihaela Horoi Department of Otolaryngology, CHU Saint-Pierre, Brussels, Belgium

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2454-5929.ijohns20242286

Keywords:

Isolated sphenoid sinusitis, Orbital apex syndrome, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Recurrent infection, Cranial neuropathies, Visual loss

Abstract

Isolated sphenoid sinusitis (ISS) is a rare condition that can lead to severe complications, with orbital apex syndrome (OAS) being an exceptionally rare manifestation characterized by visual loss and multiple cranial neuropathies. We report a case of a 41-year-old female presenting with recurrent OAS caused by a chronic Staphylococcus epidermidis infection of the sphenoid sinus. Despite extensive diagnostic workups and multiple surgical interventions, the patient experienced recurrent episodes of OAS, highlighting the challenges in diagnosis and treatment. This report emphasizes the pathogenic potential of S. epidermidis, typically considered a commensal organism, in chronic sinusitis and underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing such complex cases.

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Published

2024-08-17