From Frontoethmoidal Mucocele to Orbital Apex Syndrome: A Rare Case Report

Es-Sddik EL Bakri*, Lahjaouj M, Loudghiri M, Bijou W, Oukessou Y, Rouadi S, Abada R,
Roubal M and Mahtar M
 

Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), 20 August Hospital, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco

^*Correspondance to: Es-Sddik EL Bakri 

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Abstract:

Frontoethmoidal mucoceles are benign but locally aggressive lesions that may cause significant orbital complications when diagnosis is delayed. We report the case of a 52-year-old patient with a history of migraine presenting with a one-week history of progressive right periorbital pain, followed by ptosis, ophthalmoplegia, mild proptosis, and decreased visual acuity. CT imaging of the paranasal sinuses demonstrated opacification of the right frontoethmoidal sinus with erosion of the lamina papyracea and infraorbital extension. The patient was managed with empirical intravenous antibiotics followed by endoscopic endonasal surgery. Intraoperative findings confirmed a frontoethmoidal mucocele. A Draft III procedure with marsupialization was performed. The postoperative course was uncomplicated, with progressive recovery of ocular motility and visual function. This case emphasizes the importance of early radiological evaluation in patients presenting with atypical orbital symptoms and supports endoscopic management as the preferred approach for complex frontal sinus mucoceles.  

Keywords:

Critical care medicine; Fronto-ethmoidal mucocele; Orbital apex syndrome; Orbital complication; Endonasal surgery; Draft III

Cite the Article:

Es-Sddik EL Bakri, Lahjaouj M, Loudghiri M, Bijou W, Oukessou Y, Rouadi S, et al. From Frontoethmoidal Mucocele to Orbital Apex Syndrome: A Rare Case Report. Clin Case Rep Int. 2026; 10: 1781.