A Case of Huge Pneumatized Uncinate Process Causing Obstruction in Patient with Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Abstract

Chronic rhinosinusitis is one of the most common diseases in rhinology. The importance of the ostiomeatal complex (OMC) has been known. Anatomic abnormalities and inflammatory changes lead to sinus ostial obstruction and subsequently induce chronic or recurrent sinusitis. Therefore, anatomic variations of the nasal cavity were considered as important factors in causing chronic rhinosinusitis. Whereas pneumatization of the middle and superior turbinate is a common finding, that of uncinate process is extremely rare. It can cause obstruction of the OMC by narrowing the middle meatus and infundibulum. We have recently experienced a huge pneumatized uncinate process causing obstruction in patient with chronic rhinosinusitis. We could successfully perform endoscopic sinus surgery with good results. Therefore, we present this rare case and briefly discuss the possible pathogenesis. (Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg 2008;51:931-4)