The Role of Fungi in Diseases of the Nose and Sinuses

BACKGROUND: Human exposure to fungal elements is inevitable, with normal respiration routinely depositing fungal hyphae within the nose and paranasal sinuses. Fungal species can cause sinonasal disease, with clinical outcomes ranging from mild symptoms to intracranial invasion and death. There has been much debate regarding the precise role fungal species play in sinonasal disease and optimal treatment strategies. METHODS: A literature review of fungal diseases of the nose and sinuses was conducted. RESULTS: Presentation, diagnosis, and current management strategies of each recognized form of fungal rhinosinusitis was reviewed. CONCLUSION: Each form of fungal rhinosinusitis has a characteristic presentation and clinical course, with the immune status of the host playing a critical pathophysiological role. Accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment strategies are necessary to achieve optimal outcomes.