Non-Invasive Rhinosinusitis: Clinical and Microbiological Perspective

Abstract

Objectives: Objectives: Fungal rhinosinusitis is one of the important healthcare problems and its incidence and prevalence are increasing over the past three decades. It affects approximately 20% of the population at some time in their lives. We aimed to identify and characterize the microorganisms causing non-invasive rhinosinusitis and to correlate the findings with the clinical profile of patients. Methods: Clinically suspected cases of rhinosinusitis were enrolled in the study and detailed clinical history was taken. Samples like nasal mucosa, nasal crusts, scrapings / excised nasal polyps, and biopsy were collected. The specimens were processed for fungal culture. Isolates were identified as per standard protocols. Results: A total of 74 patients clinically suspected of rhinosinusitis were enrolled in our study out of which 60.8% were males. The most common presenting complaint was nasal obstruction (91.8%) followed by nasal discharge (77%). Clinically characterizing, the most common type of non-invasive rhinosinusitis seen in our study was allergic rhinosinusitis (44.6%). KOH positivity was 45.6% and fungal culture positivity was 30.4%. The most common fungal isolate was Aspergillus flavus. Conclusion: Continuous and periodic evaluation of the microbiological patterns of isolates is necessary to decrease the potential risk of complications by early institution of appropriate treatment.