# Clinical characteristics and treatment of unilateral allergic fungal rhinosinusitis: a retrospective case series and literature review

## TL;DR

This study examines the clinical features and treatment outcomes of unilateral allergic fungal rhinosinusitis in 23 patients.

## Contribution

The study provides a detailed retrospective analysis of unilateral AFRS, highlighting its clinical features and treatment efficacy.

## Key findings

- Endoscopic sinus surgery and oral glucocorticoids effectively treated most unilateral AFRS cases.
- Unilateral AFRS is characterized by eosinophilic mucin, specific CT findings, and fungal-specific hypersensitivity.
- The VAS score significantly decreased from 8.5 preoperatively to 1.1 postoperatively.

## Abstract

To retrospectively summarize the clinical manifestations, pathological characteristics, and efficacy of unilateral allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS), we analyzed the clinical data of 23 patients diagnosed with unilateral AFRS in a teaching hospital setting. All the patients showed positive reaction for fungal allergens via the skin prick test or serum-specific IgE test. CT scan showed lesions of the sinuses were unilateral. The average postoperative follow-up time was 72 months. Among the cases, 20 cases were cured, and 3 cases were improved. The VAS score decreased from 8.5 preoperatively to 1.1 postoperatively. The eosinophilic mucin, typical CT findings, and fungal-specific type I hypersensitivity are the three clinical features of AFRS. Endoscopic sinus surgery and oral glucocorticoids are effective treatments for AFRS.