Orbital complications in pediatric acute sinusitis: eight-year experience

Abstract Objectives: Acute sinusitis accounts for up to 82% of orbital infection cases. Infection spreads very quickly, especially through the ethmoid sinus, and orbital complications may arise even under antibiotic therapy. The aim of this study was to describe an 8-year hospital experience with these children. Methods: All cases of acute sinusitis with orbital complications admitted to the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra between 2010 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Sixty-four patients met the inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 9 ± 4.7 years. Male:female ratio was 1.67:1. Most subjects were admitted in the winter period (57.8%), with 2.9 ± 2.5 days of clinical evolution. The mean Lund Mackay score was 10.6 ± 4.9, with maxillary and ethmoid being the most prevalent involved sinuses (96.4% and 94.6%, respectively), and was inversely correlated with age (p<0.05). Preseptal cellulitis was the most common complication (56.3%). Abscesses were identified in 18.7% of patients, but only four (6.25%) required surgery. Seven cases (10.9%) recurred shortly after hospital discharge and required prolonged antibiotic course. All patients recovered well, without further complications. Conclusion: Results showed that orbital complications of sinusitis respond well to high doses of endovenous antibiotherapy and patients tend to recover without local comorbidities. Close monitoring of these patients during the first months after hospital discharge is crucial to prevent early relapse.