Vol.95 No.8 contentsPRACTICA OTO-RHINO-LARYNGOLOGICA
Vol. 95 No. 8 August 2002
A Case of Asymptomatic Meningoencephalocele
in Sphenoethmoidal Sinus
Masayuki Kabeya and Sugata Takahashi
(Niigata University)
Mitsuru Fujiwara
(Niigata Prefectural Central Hospital)
Masami Urano
(Saiseikai Niigata Daini Hospital)
Asymptomatic sphenoid abnormality in a 55-year-old female was detected on brain magnetic resonance imaging during a medical check-up. Local and radiological findings suggested a meningoencephalocele, but these modalities could not identify an apparent bony defect in the skull base or communication with the brain. Endonasal endoscopic sphenoidal antrostomy was performed to establish a definitive diagnosis. Membranous pulsation, which suggested dura mater, was found on penetration of the anterior bony wall. Serous fluid containing glucose was collected with a fine needle puncture, establishing a diagnosis of meningoencephalocele. The puncture hole was sealed with mucosa from the ipsilateral inferior turbinate. When asymptomatic paranasal meningoencephalocele is suspected by computed tomography scanning and magnetic resonance imaging, a minimally invasive endoscopic approach is recommended to establish a definitive diagnosis.
Key words : asymptomatic meningoencephalocele, sphenoethmoidal sinus, endoscopic approach