What Are Fungal Sinus Infections?

Fungi are present in the human body, and usually they don't cause problems. According to the American Rhinologic Society (ARS), "In most cases, these various fungi coexist in a natural balance with other microorganisms that colonize our bodies. However, in certain circumstances, fungi can cause infection ranging from minor to life-threatening in severity. Inflammation or infection of the sinuses by fungi is termed fungal sinusitis."

There are four types of fungal infections: fungal ball, allergic fungal sinusitis, acute invasive sinusitis and chronic invasive sinusitis.

Fungal ball infection is a growth of fungi in the sinuses. It is most commonly in the maxillary sinus (which sits behind the cheekbone), though it can spread to any of the sinuses. Treatment of fungal ball infections is generally a minimally invasive procedure that uses a thin endoscopic tube to remove the fungal growth. The growth can reoccur, especially if the mold spores in the living environment that caused it are not eliminated.
Allergic fungal sinusitis is the most common type, and it is triggered by common fungi in the environment. The most common type of fungi that causes it is Aspergillus, a bread mold.

This type is more difficult to permanently cure, due to the difficulty of completely eliminating the molds that trigger it from homes and buildings. Endoscopic surgery can also be used for this type, but recurrences of infections are likely. The ongoing treatments and surgeries can be lifelong.

Acute and chronic invasive sinusitis both involve uncontrolled growth of fungi in the sinuses and surrounding bone. The acute form is found in individuals with compromised immune systems. People with HIV, uncontrolled diabetes, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases are at increased risk of fungal sinusitis. It develops very rapidly and is usually fatal, even with treatment.

Chronic invasive sinusitis develops in individuals with normal immune function. It develops much slower than the acute form, but it is also deadly. The prognosis of the chronic form is better, but treatment is still necessary. Treatment and recovery is described by the ARS as, "A combination of surgery and anti-fungal medications are required in this often-fatal infection.'

Symptoms of all forms of fungal sinus infection are similar to bacterial or viral sinus infections. Congestion and thick, yellow or green mucus discharge are common. Sinus headaches and dizziness may also be present. An endoscopic look at the sinuses or a culture of sinus drainage/tissue is needed to confirm whether an infection is fungal or bacterial.

Fungal Sinusitis, American Rhinologic Society http://www.american-rhinologic.org/patientinfo.fungal.phtml