Frontal mucocele with extension to the skull base. Case report and review of the literature
https://doi.org/10.63769/1683-3295-2026-28-1-80-88
Abstract
Background. Mucoceles are benign pseudocysts with mucous content in the paranasal sinuses that can expand, destroying bone and invading adjacent structures.
Case report. A 69‑year-old female patient presented with an initially painless tumor in the left frontal region 5 years ago, which progressively increased in volume, causing frontal pain and difficulty opening the eyelid. Physical examination revealed a 6 × 5 cm rounded tumor in the left supraciliary region. A mucocele of the left frontal sinus with the erosion of the table was diagnosed, and the patient underwent surgery, performing a bi-coronal incision, total excision of the mucocele, cranialization of the left frontal sinus, and cranioplasty with titanium mesh and self-drilling screws.
Discussion. The formation of mucoceles is of variable etiology; the most frequent location is at the frontal level, which can erode the internal table of the frontal sinus, producing invasion towards the dura mater and, in some cases, the brain parenchyma, causing infections. The clinical picture is variable and depends on the location. Surgical management should be focused on optimizing a definitive resolution of the symptoms, maintaining an anatomy with normal drainage of the paranasal sinuses, and preventing the risk of recurrence.
Conclusion. Mucoceles constitute a benign pathology. However, they should be treated immediately through a surgical approach, preferably with an open approach that allows direct access to the frontal sinus, adequate removal of the mucocele, and complete obliteration to prevent the risk of infections or recurrence.
About the Author
G. Vasquez-Paredes
School of Medicine, Antenor Orrego Private University; Neurosurgery Department, Belen Hospital of Trujillo
Peru
Peru
Gino Vasquez-Paredes
Trujillo, 13007
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Review
For citations:
Vasquez-Paredes G. Frontal mucocele with extension to the skull base. Case report and review of the literature. Russian journal of neurosurgery. 2026;28(1):80-88. https://doi.org/10.63769/1683-3295-2026-28-1-80-88
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