What is a sinus mucocele?
A sinus mucocele is essentially a benign sinus cavity cyst, caused from the blockage of normal sinus drainage pathways. Unfortunately, these cysts can get infected and will grow over time. As they expand, the cysts can erode and remodel the surrounding bone. Although mucoceles are easily curable, those that remain untreated can produce severe problems, particularly when the spaces near the eyes or brain are involved.
What causes a sinus mucocele?
Typically, sinus mucoceles are caused from a blockage of the tiny canals that connect your sinuses to the nasal cavity. In most cases, the causes are unknown. However, chronic infections, previous surgery, trauma to the nose, and dental infections/procedures are all risk factors for developing a sinus mucocele.
![sinus-mucocele-scan]()
A maxillary sinus mucocele (red asterisk) caused from dental source (green arrow)
What symptoms are caused by a sinus mucocele?
Sinus mucoceles can cause many potential symptoms including nasal congestion, facial pressure/pain, and nasal drainage. If the mucocele is near an eye, over time the excess pressure can cause the eye to bulge out (orbital proptosis).
How area sinus mucoceles treated?
Because the sinus cavities become permanently blocked, the only way to treat sinus mucoceles is with endoscopic sinus surgery. The goal of the surgery is to open up the sinus cavity, drain any fluid or infection, and remove any cysts presents. Once the surgery is over, most mucoceles never return and the patient is cured.
