Arrested Pneumatization of the Sphenoid Sinus: A Normal Variant That Can Be Confused With a Pathological Entity

Year 2019, Volume: 5 Issue: 2, 170 - 174, 01.04.2019

Mehmet H Atalar

https://doi.org/10.5455/umj.20190113015455

Abstract

Background: An arrested pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus is an anatomical variant. It is known that the sphenoid bones undergo early fatty marrow conversion antecedent to normal pneumatization. Since it is a developmental condition, it usually occurs as a coincidental finding. The clinical symptoms specific to this entity are not attributable. They are seen incidentally during radiological examinations. If not recognized, it can be easily confused with pathological lesions. In this article, we aimed to draw attention to this rare situation by observing the current literature with three cases. Conclusion: In conclusion, making a correct diagnosis of AP of sphenoid sinus, an incidentally detected benign, asymptomatic developmental variation, and making a careful distinction of it from other lesions will save patients from unnecessary biopsy and surgical procedures.

Keywords

Arrested pneumatization, Imaging, Skull base, Sphenoid sinus

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