Arrested pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus: a benign condition that simulates pathological lesions
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Keywords
arrested pneumatization, sphenoid sinus, skull base, head and neck imaging
Abstract
Arrested pneumatization of the paranasal sinuses is an under-recognized benign condition, which consists of a variation of the normal pneumatization, with fatty bone marrow remai- ning within the cavity, more frequent in the sphenoid sinus. It is generally asymptomatic, and its diagnosis is usually incidental in the context of imaging for other causes, with defi- ned imaging criteria for this condition. Its management is expectant and its distinction from other differential diagnoses is essential, in order to avoid invasive procedures and treat- ments that only contribute morbidity. We present two cases of 15- and 16-year-old patients who, on imaging for another reason, show heterogeneous sphenoid lesions with low-signal foci suggestive of calcifications, with characteristics compatible with arrested pneumatiza- tion of the sphenoid sinus.