Navigating Fibrous Dysplasia of the Middle Turbinate: A Decade-Long Journey and Comprehensive Management Strategies

Abstract

The authors report an unusual case of monostotic fibrous dysplasia involving the middle turbinate. Only four cases of fibrous dysplasia (FD) involving the middle turbinate had previously been documented globally, all of which entailed severe presentation and were treated surgically. We report the first case of asymptomatic monostotic FD of the middle turbinate in the Middle East, followed over a span of 10 years. Fibro-osseous lesions are rare, benign tumors of the sinonasal and orbital regions. Craniofacial FD most commonly affects the maxilla and mandible, followed by the frontal, parietal, and occipital bones. The prevalence of most patients presenting with monostotic craniofacial FD is between 10% and 29%. It is typically found incidentally, and is most likely to be asymptomatic. The risk of skull base damage and cerebrospinal fluid leaks is increased in this case due to the involvement of the middle turbinate and the expansion of FD into the lateral lamella and the cribriform plate. Our patient was managed conservatively with regular follow-up due to the minor clinical symptoms despite the extent of the disease. We aim to elucidate the specific challenges associated with middle turbinate involvement and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in this field, ultimately improving the care and quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.

Maxillofacial Bone Involvement in Fibro-Osseous Lesions: Emphasizing the Significance of Differential Diagnosis

“…The term craniofacial FD is employed when solely the cranial and facial bones are involved. Maxillary involvement is more common than mandibular, with a higher incidence observed in females [ 12 ]. Affected cranial or facial bones dictate the clinical features.…”