Abducens nerve palsy secondary to allergic fungal sinusitis

Abstract

Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) stands out as the predominant form of fungal sinusitis, primarily attributable to a hypersensitive response to fungal invasion. AFRS Characterized by symptoms of rhinosinusitis. The expanding mass in the disease leads to bony restructuring and implicating adjacent anatomical structures. AFRS may extend beyond the sinus cavities, leading to compression of nearby structures like the orbit, optic and abducens nerves which leads to many complications such as nerve palsies and proptosis. Diagnosis of AFRS typically necessitates radiographic assessment initially, with histopathological examination serving as the confirmatory modality. The management of AFRS typically entails a multifaceted approach integrating surgical intervention alongside medical therapy. This case report illustrates a distinctive manifestation of abducens nerve palsy secondary to allergic fungal sinusitis which had dramatic improvement and resolution of the diplopia after the Endoscopic sinus surgery. Steroids and nasal saline irrigation have been prescribed post operatively to prevent the recurrence.

Keywords: abducens nerve palsy; allergic fungal sinusitis; paranasal sinuses.