Intraorbital and Intracranial Complications of Acute Rhinosinusitis: A Rare Case Report

Complications of acute sinusitis affecting multiple sites are very uncommon in the antibiotic era. However, a significant proportion of patients (5–40%) suffering from acute sinusitis can have these complications mostly due to the delayed diagnosis of the disease. Patients can have variable presentations according to the site and extent of the infection.
Case Report: A 21-year-old male student presented with subperiosteal abscess and a brain abscess with a history of acute sinusitis. The patient had short history of left-side hemiplegia with foot drop. Endoscopic orbital decompression was performed and the subperiosteal abscess was drained when it did not respond to medical treatment. Complete clinical and radiological recovery was achieved after 1 month of medical treatment.
Complications affecting the multiple sites in acute sinusitis is very uncommon in the antibiotic era.
A proper history and thorough clinical examination along with a radiological evaluation are key factors in the final diagnosis of the patients with suspected complications. A quick multidisciplinary approach among otorhinologsts, ophthalmologists and general physicians is always necessary to avoid unwanted life-threatening complications.