Silent sinus syndrome

Silent sinus syndrome is a rare condition characterized by the progressive retraction of the maxillary sinus walls, leading to a sunken appearance of the eye socket on the affected side.

This condition occurs due to chronic negative pressure within the maxillary sinus, often resulting from an obstruction of the sinus ostium, the opening that allows sinuses to drain.

Over time, this negative pressure can cause the sinus walls to collapse and the orbit to descend, creating a condition known as enophthalmos, which is the posterior displacement of the eye within the orbit.

The term 'silent' refers to the fact that this syndrome often progresses without typical sinus-related symptoms such as pain or nasal congestion, making it challenging to diagnose until noticeable facial asymmetry or visual changes occur.

The condition is typically detected through imaging studies, such as CT or MRI scans, which can reveal the characteristic changes in sinus anatomy and orbital displacement.

Management of silent sinus syndrome usually involves surgical intervention to restore normal sinus drainage and relieve the negative pressure.

This may include endoscopic sinus surgery to open the blocked ostium and allow for normal aeration of the sinus.

Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent changes in facial appearance and potential visual complications.