Surgical outcomes after endoscopic management of cholesterol granulomas of the petrous apex: a systematic review.

OBJECT: Endoscopic endonasal treatment of petrous apex cholesterol granulomas allows for a natural drainage pathway into the nasopharynx. Because of the limited number of case series in the literature, there is limited evidence of recurrence rates and outcomes following endoscopic endonasal management. The purpose of this study was to determine the surgical outcomes of endoscopic endonasal approaches in the treatment of cholesterol granulomas of the petrous apex. METHODS: A systematic literature review was performed using PubMed for articles published from January 1980 to April 2014 to identify all studies reporting outcomes for endoscopic endonasal surgical management of cholesterol granulomas of the petrous apex. Operative approach, use of a stent, symptom outcome, restenosis, cyst recurrence, reoperation, and complications were extracted from included studies. RESULTS: A total of 53 patient cases were included from 22 relevant studies. The mean age was 41 years, and 26 patients (49%) were female. Stents were used in 45.1% of cases. Symptom resolution or improvement was seen in 98.6% of cases at follow-up (mean follow-up 20 months). Complications were reported in 13.2% of cases, with the most common complication being epistaxis. Restenosis on follow-up office endoscopic examination occurred in 9 of 45 cases (20.0%). Only 4 of these restenosis cases resulted in symptomatic cyst recurrence, resulting in an overall recurrence rate of 7.5%. The mean time from surgery to cyst recurrence was 13.5 months. The rate of symptomatic cyst recurrence was 10.7% in cases without the use of a stent compared with 4.3% in cases with stent placement (p = 0.6). CONCLUSIONS: Based on current literature, endoscopic endonasal approaches result in a high rate of symptom improvement or resolution. Complication rates are lower than prior case series that have utilized open approaches. Asymptomatic restenosis can be managed conservatively, since it is associated with symptomatic cyst recurrence less than half of the time. This study revealed a nonsignificant trend toward a decrease in symptomatic cyst recurrence when a stent was used, but further work is needed to clarify its impact.

Endoscopic Endonasal Approach to Intraconal Orbital Tumors: Outcomes and Lessons Learned.

BACKGROUND: Lesions involving the intraconal space of the orbit are rare and challenging to manage. Operative techniques and outcomes for the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) to tumors in the medial intraconal space (MIS) remain poorly characterized. OBJECTIVE: We present our experience with a wide range of isolated intraconal pathology managed via an EEA. METHODS: A retrospective review of all cases (2014-2021) performed by a single skull base team in which the EEA was employed for the management of an intraconal orbital lesion. RESULTS: Twenty patients (13 men, 7 women) with a mean age of 59 years (range, 40-89 years) were included. All lesions were isolated to the MIS, pathology addressed included: cavernous hemangioma (6), schwannoma (4), lymphoma (4), inflammatory pseudotumor (2), chronic invasive fungal sinusitis (2), and metastatic disease (2). Either a biopsy (10/20) or a complete resection (10/20) was performed. In all cases, the MIS was accessed via an endonasal corridor between the medial and inferior rectus muscles. Retraction and safe, intra-orbital dissection of the lesion was performed using a two-surgeon, multi-handed technique. Gross total resection of benign lesions was achieved in 90% (9/10) of cases; a pathologic diagnosis was achieved in 100% (10/10) of biopsy cases. No orbital reconstruction was required. Visual acuity returned to normal in 80% (8/10) of planned resection cases and postoperative diplopia resolved by 3 months in 90%. Mean follow-up was 15 months. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that the EEA is safe and effective for accessing lesions in the MIS. This technique affords very favorable outcomes with minimal postoperative morbidity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 134:47-55, 2024.

Management of the Nasolacrimal Duct in Expanded Endoscopic Approaches to the Maxillary Sinus: A Systematic Review with Evidence-based Recommendations.

BACKGROUND: Utilizing expanded endoscopic approaches to the maxillary sinus for the endonasal management of a variety of tumors is increasing in popularity. The nasolacrimal duct (NLD) may be injured inadvertantly or need to be removed during tumor resection or to augment visualization. Management of the NLD can take the form of transection alone, transection with stenting, or performing a formal dacryocystorhinostomy to avoid postoperative sequelae of injury. The purpose of this study was to review the literature and determine the optimal management of the NLD during expanded maxillary sinus approaches. METHODS: A systematic review of Ovid, Embase, Medline, and Cochrane databases was performed to identify studies involving expanded approaches to the maxillary sinus and that explicitly reported the status of the NLD and postoperative outcomes. RESULTS: Nineteen studies were included in the analysis and divided into two groups: NLD-preserving (n = 9 studies; n = 191 patients in aggregate) and NLD-involving (n = 10 studies; n = 296 patients in aggregate). In the NLD-preserving subgroup, one patient out of a subgroup aggregate of 191 patients (0.5%) developed epiphora. In the NLD-involving subgroup, sharp transection alone was the most common method of NLD removal and was associated with a low rate of epiphora (study rates: 0 to 18.2%; aggregated subgroup rate: 7.0%, 21 / 296). Spontaneous resolution of symptoms was common (60%-100% cases). CONCLUSIONS: The NLD should be preserved when feasible from an exposure and tumor-control perspective. When pathology or approach requires the removal of the NLD, rates of persistent epiphora are very low, regardless of surgical technique. When expanded maxillary approaches are employed, particularly for benign tumors, and require removal of the NLD, sharp transection is the simplest method of removal, provides a low rate of postoperative epiphora, and is supported by the available literature.

Emergency department visits following endoscopic skull base surgery: An opportunity for improvement.

BACKGROUND: Readmissions are major healthcare expenditures, key hospital metrics, and are often preceded by an evaluation in the emergency department (ED). The purpose of this study was to analyze ED visits within 30 days of endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS), risk factors for readmission once in the ED, and ED-related evaluation and outcomes. METHODS: Retrospective review from January 2017 to December 2022 at a high-volume center of all ESBS patients who presented to the ED within 30 days of surgery. RESULTS: Of 593 ESBS cases, 104 patients (17.5%) presented to the ED following surgery within 30 days, with a median presentation of 6 days post-discharge (IQR 5-14); 54 (51.9%) patients were discharged while 50 (48.1%) were readmitted. Readmitted patients were significantly older than discharged patients (median 60 years, IQR 50-68 vs. 48 years, 33-56; p < 0.01). Extent of ESBS was not associated with readmission or discharge from the ED. The most common discharge diagnoses were headache (n = 13, 24.1%) and epistaxis (n = 10, 18.5%); the most common readmitting diagnoses were serum abnormality (n = 15, 30.0%) and altered mental status (n = 5, 10.0%). Readmitted patients underwent significantly more laboratory testing than discharged patients (median 6, IQR 3-9 vs. 4, 1-6; p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Approximately half of patients who presented to the ED following ESBS were discharged home but underwent significant workup. Follow-up within 7 days of discharge, risk-stratified endocrine care pathways, and efforts to address the social determinants of health may be considered to optimize postoperative ESBS care.

Practice Patterns Among Fellowship-Trained Rhinologists: A Survey of Past American Rhinologic Society Fellows.

BACKGROUND: The goals of this study were to understand the trends in recent and past rhinology fellows concerning their demographics, goals, and experiences. METHODS: An anonymous web-based survey was sent to graduates of the 35 rhinology fellowship programs. The survey included questions regarding the scope of practice, research contribution, societal involvement, fellow satisfaction with training, and current practice patterns. Chi-square testing and logistic regression were used to compare variables across cohorts: 0-5 years versus 6+ years from fellowship graduation, gender, and practice settings. RESULTS: Based on 171 respondents, we found no significant differences in 0-5 versus 6+ year graduates in their desire for an academic job post-fellowship. However, those who graduated 6+ years ago had significantly more success securing one (74% vs 96%, P = 0.004). Between males and females, there were no differences in goal of obtaining an academic job or success in obtaining an academic career. Females were more likely to report they attend academic society meetings regularly. Female rhinologists also reported less satisfaction with overall work-life balance and decreased satisfaction with clinical practice. Physicians in academic settings have poorer work-life balance. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that finding an academic job may be more difficult for recent rhinology fellowship graduates, although still very possible for the majority of graduates. Understanding the reason for these changes may provide insight to current rhinology fellowship directors and trainees interested in pursuing fellowship training.

American Rhinologic Society expert practice statement part 1: Skull base reconstruction following endoscopic skull base surgery.

The goal of this American Rhinologic Society expert practice statement (EPS) is to summarize the best available evidence for technical factors that optimize outcomes in skull base reconstruction following endoscopic skull base surgery for intradural pathologies. These topics include the use of free mucosal grafts versus vascularized pedicled nasoseptal flaps; the use of autologous versus synthetic grafts; and the roles of lumbar drains, dural sealants, and nasal packing. This EPS was developed following the recommended methodology and approval process as previously outlined. As there are a myriad of techniques and limited agreement on the accepted principles of skull base reconstruction, this EPS aims to summarize the existing evidence and provide clinically meaningful guidance on these divergent practices. Following a modified Delphi approach, five statements were developed, four of which reached consensus and one of which reached near consensus. These statements and the accompanying evidence are summarized along with an assessment of future needs.

Efficacy of EDS-FLU for Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Two Randomized Controlled Trials (ReOpen1 and ReOpen2).

BACKGROUND: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a prevalent inflammatory disease. No medications are Food and Drug Administration-approved for the most common form, CRS without nasal polyps (also called "chronic sinusitis"). Novel biomechanics of the exhalation delivery system deliver fluticasone (EDS-FLU; XHANCE) to sinonasal areas above the inferior turbinate, especially sinus drainage pathways not reached by standard-delivery nasal sprays. OBJECTIVE: Assess EDS-FLU efficacy for CRS (irrespective of nasal polyps). METHODS: Two randomized, EDS-placebo-controlled trials in adults with CRS irrespective of polyps (ReOpen1) or exclusively without polyps (ReOpen2) were conducted at 120 sites in 13 countries. Patients received EDS-FLU 1 or 2 sprays/nostril, or EDS-placebo, twice daily for 24 weeks. Coprimary measures were composite symptom score through week 4 and ethmoid/maxillary sinus percent opacification by computed tomography at week 24. RESULTS: ReOpen1 (N = 332) composite symptom score least-squares mean change for EDS-FLU 1 or 2 sprays/nostril versus EDS-placebo was -1.58 and -1.60 versus -0.62 (P < .001, P < .001); ReOpen2 (N = 223), -1.54 and -1.74 versus -0.81 (P = .011, P = .001). In ReOpen1, sinus opacification least-squares mean change for EDS-FLU 1 or 2 sprays/nostril versus EDS-placebo was -5.58 and -6.20 versus -1.60 (P = .045, P = .018), and in ReOpen2, -7.00 and -5.14 versus +1.19 (P < .001, P = .009). Acute disease exacerbations were reduced by 56% to 66% with EDS-FLU versus EDS-placebo (P = .001). There were significant, and similar magnitude, symptom reductions in patients using standard-delivery nasal steroid products just before entering the study (P < .001). Adverse events were similar to standard-delivery intranasal steroids. CONCLUSIONS: EDS-FLU is the first nonsurgical treatment demonstrated to reduce symptoms, intrasinus opacification, and exacerbations in replicate randomized clinical trials in CRS, regardless of polyp status.

Endoscopic multiport resection of a transspatial, retromaxillary tumor.

Tumors of the retromaxillary tissues can grow to involve multiple deep, skull base spaces, including the pterygopalatine fossa, infratemporal fossa, and the parapharyngeal space. Management of these tumors must account for heterogeneous pathology as well as the critical neurovasculature in and surrounding these spaces. Traditionally, these tumors have been approached the open skull base or anterior craniofacial approaches. Modern endoscopic endonasal and multiport approaches have increasingly become favored for certain tumors in the retromaxillary skull base region. In this report, we present the case of a 42-year-old male presented with refractory headache and was found to have a left-sided 5.0 cm tumor of the retromaxillary spaces with widening of foramen ovale. Differential diagnosis included schwannoma of the mandibular nerve, paraganglioma, salivary gland tumor, or soft tissue tumor. The tumor was approached via an expanded endoscopic approach to the pterygopalatine fossa and augmented with a Caldwell-Luc maxillotomy, to access the posterolateral extent of the tumor. A 2-surgeon team utilized visualization and instrumentation through both the transnasal and transmaxillotomy corridors to completely mobilize and remove the tumor. Post-resection imaging demonstrated complete removal of the tumor and pathology confirmed the diagnosis of schwannoma. Custom, multiport surgery can be a safe, less invasive approach for successful management of well selected retromaxillary skull base tumors.

Biologics for Nasal Polyps: Synthesizing Current Recommendations into a Practical Clinical Algorithm.

BACKGROUND: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) has been traditionally managed with a combination of topical and systemic medical therapy as well as endoscopic sinus surgery. The emergence of biologic therapies that target specific aspects of the inflammatory cascade has ushered in a potentially new paradigm in the management options available for CRSwNP. PURPOSE: To summarize the current literature and recommendations supporting the use of available biologic therapies for CRSwNP and to develop an algorithm to aid clinical decision-making regarding treatment selection. METHODS: A review of available literature and studies that demonstrated the clinical efficacy of biologic agents for the treatment of CRSwNP informing current CRSwNP consensus algorithms. RESULTS: Current biologic medications target immunoglobulin E, interleukins, or interleukin receptors implicated in the Th2 inflammatory cascade. Institution of biologic therapy is now an option for patients who have disease refractory to topical medical therapy and endoscopic sinus surgery, those who cannot tolerate surgery, or patients with other comorbid Th2 diseases. Response to treatment should be monitored at 4-6 months and 1 year after initiating therapy. Across multiple indirect comparisons, dupilumab appears to have the largest therapeutic benefit across multiple subjective and objective outcomes. The choice of therapeutic agent also depends on drug availability, patient tolerance, presence of comorbid illnesses, and cost. CONCLUSIONS: Biologics are emerging as an important option in the management of patients with CRSwNP. While more data is required to fully inform indications, treatment selection, and health economics related to their use, biologics may offer robust symptom relief to patients who have failed other interventions.

Improving the Accuracy of Maxillary Sinus Balloon Dilation Using Virtual Reality Navigation: A Proof-of-Concept Study.

BACKGROUND: The ability to reliably and accurately cannulate the natural ostium of the maxillary sinus during balloon sinus dilation (BSD) has been criticized. Conventional computed tomography (CT)-guided navigation systems are helpful when dilating other sinuses, but they fail to provide meaningful feedback to guide accurate dilation of the maxillary sinus. OBJECTIVE: This study explores the potential impact of a new navigation system with virtual reality (VR) functionality on successful BSD of the maxillary sinus. METHODS: Using the established methodology, a cadaveric evaluation of the accuracy of maxillary BSD with a VR-equipped navigation system and balloon was undertaken. The natural ostium was landmarked on CT images with a beacon, and a VR intrasinus camera view was used to guide balloon dilation by a team of 2 rhinologists. Following the procedure, uncinectomies were performed to directly assess the accuracy of dilation. Standardized video clips with a 30° endoscopic view of the area were reviewed by 3 blinded rhinologists from different institutions who were not part of the procedures. Dilation of the natural ostium was scored as "successful," "unsuccessful," or "unsure." RESULTS: Sixteen maxillary BSDs were completed in 8 cadavers using VR navigation. The medial wall of the maxillary sinus showing the natural ostium as well as any accessory ostia were readily visualized and labeled with a beacon in all cases using the 3D virtual rendering feature. Dilations were scored using a standardized rubric. Any "unsure" responses from the reviewers were categorized as "unsuccessful" for analysis purposes. The accuracy rate for dilation of the maxillary sinus natural ostium was 77%. Despite the use of cadaveric tissues, a fair interrater agreement (kappa 0.21) was achieved. CONCLUSION: Using VR navigation appears to improve the accuracy of cannulating the natural ostium during maxillary BSD, which could lead to better outcomes. Further study in live subjects is warranted.

Efficacy of the exhalation delivery system with fluticasone in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps whose symptoms recur after sinus surgery.

BACKGROUND: Sinus surgery removes inflamed tissue, restores airflow, and improves delivery of medication into surgically opened spaces. The exhalation delivery system with fluticasone (EDS-FLU; XHANCE® ) uses a novel delivery system to create closed-palate, positive-pressure, bidirectional mechanics that significantly alter the deposition of the topically acting anti-inflammatory medication. We ask whether EDS-FLU efficacy differs for patients with recurrent symptoms after sinus surgery versus patients without surgery. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to compare EDS-FLU treatment responses in patients with recurrent symptoms after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) and patients who have never had sinus surgery. METHODS: Data were pooled from two large, controlled trials (NAVIGATE I and II) for exploratory analyses. Chronic rhinosinusitis symptoms, polyp grade, and quality-of-life measures were compared between patients with prior ESS and those without prior ESS. RESULTS: Patients with prior ESS (exhalation delivery system-placebo [n = 53], EDS-FLU 186 µg [n = 52], and EDS-FLU 372 µg [n = 49]) and unoperated patients (exhalation delivery system-placebo [n = 108], EDS-FLU 186 µg [n = 108], and EDS-FLU 372 µg [n = 111]) treated with EDS-FLU reported similar and substantial benefits as measured by multiple symptom and quality-of-life/functioning outcomes (congestion score, 22-Item Sinonasal Outcomes Test [SNOT-22], Rhinosinusitis Disability Index [RSDI], Patient Global Impression of Change) and by nasal polyp grade. In previously operated patients, unlike surgery-naive patients, multiple outcomes (SNOT-22, RSDI, polyp grade) consistently showed numerically but not statistically greater responses to the higher dose. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with recurrent symptoms after sinus surgery who were treated with EDS-FLU demonstrated significant symptom and quality-of-life improvement. Unlike unoperated patients, patients with prior ESS had a numerically but not statistically greater response to the higher dose of EDS-FLU (two sprays per nostril twice a day).

Fascia Lata: Another Workhorse for Complex Skull Base Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Multiple methods exist for skull base reconstruction of defects created by expanded endonasal approaches. While the nasoseptal flap (NSF) has been well established as the workhorse of mucosal reconstruction in complex skull base defects in multi-layered closures, a variety of options exist for the inner layer of multilayer reconstruction, including fascia lata (FL). OBJECTIVE: To present our experience and outcomes in utilizing FL in multiple ways to reconstruct a wide variety of complex skull base defects. METHODS: Retrospective review was performed from May 2017 to February 2022 to identify 50 consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic skull base reconstruction using FL. RESULTS: FL was employed for reconstruction in 50 patients included in the study: 37 undergoing primary expanded endonasal skull base surgery and 13 revision cases. A wide range of complex pathology was treated, with meningioma and craniopharyngioma being the two most common. FL was utilized as a "button" graft (34/50, 68.0%), free graft inlay/onlay (13/50, 26.0%), and as a button graft combined with onlay (3/50, 6.0%). Expanded surgery defects addressed included tuberculum sella/sphenoid planum (36/50, 72.0%), clivus (6/50, 12.0%), and cribriform/planum (8/50, 16.0%). Successful reconstruction with fascia lata was accomplished in 46/50 cases (92%), with only 4 cases (8%) requiring revision for post-op CSF leak. Donor-site complications were rare with only 1 case (2.0%) of post-op seroma. CONCLUSION: FL, usually with NSF, offers a versatile option for the reconstruction of challenging defects with excellent outcomes and minimal morbidity. FL is emerging as a workhorse for reconstruction of the inner layer of complex skull base defects.

Predictive Factors for Postoperative Opioid Use in Elective Endoscopic Endonasal Skull Base Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: In 2017, the United States opioid epidemic was declared a public health emergency. Increased efforts have been made to understand and reduce patient opioid use in neurosurgery. However, the factors associated with postoperative opioid use remain understudied in endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery (EESBS). We identified the demographic and surgical factors associated with postoperative opioid use in EESBS. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of patients who underwent elective EESBS between January 2015 and December 2020. Patient demographics, relevant clinical history, and operative data were collected and analyzed. Total opioid use was calculated 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively. Multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with opioid use. RESULTS: There were 454 patients included. A history of anxiety/depression and younger patient age were associated with a significant increase in opioid use at 24 (28.2 MME, p < 0.001), 48 (53.4 MME, p < 0.001), and 72 (89.4 MME, p < 0.001) hours after surgery. Nasoseptal flap use was significantly associated with increased opioid use at 24 (12.8 MME, p < 0.49) and 48 (19.6 MME, p < 0.048) h postoperatively while controlling for intraoperative variables and surgical approach (trans-sellar vs. expanded). No significant association was observed for patient sex, history of migraines, preoperative opioid use, length of surgery, or surgical approach. CONCLUSION: In patients undergoing EESBS, patient history of anxiety/depression, younger patient age, and nasoseptal flap use are associated with increased postoperative opioid use. Knowledge of these risk factors may guide perioperative prescribing patterns to both adequately control postoperative pain and reduce opioid use. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 133:494-499, 2023.

Free Tissue Transfer for Skull Base Osteoradionecrosis: A Novel Approach in the Endoscopic Era.

OBJECTIVES: Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the skull base and craniovertebral junction is a challenging complication of radiation therapy (RT). Severe cases often require surgical intervention through a multi-modal approach. With the evolution in endoscopic surgery and advances in skull base reconstruction, there is an increasing role for microvascular free tissue transfer (MFTT). We describe an endoscopic-assisted approach for the management of ORN of the skull base using fascia lata for MFTT. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. METHODS: Between 2017 and 2021, a review of all cases in which fascia lata MFTT was utilized for skull base ORN was performed. Patient demographics, preoperative characteristics, and postoperative outcomes with long-term follow-up were reviewed. RESULTS: Five patients were identified. Mean duration to onset of ORN was 17 months following RT. A trial of antibiotics, hyperbaric oxygen (HBO), and/or limited debridement was attempted without success. Refractory pain and progressive osteomyelitis were unifying symptoms. All patients underwent endoscopic debridement of the affected region of ORN prior to MFTT. Vascularized fascia lata was inset through a combined endonasal and transoral corridor. There was improvement in chronic pain in the postop setting with no patients requiring continued antibiotics or HBO therapy. Mean post-op follow-up was 23 months. CONCLUSIONS: With continued evolution in endoscopic, minimally invasive approaches, there is an expanding indication for early surgical management in refractory ORN. Fascia lata MFTT is a novel and effective strategy for the management of ORN of the skull base and upper cervical spine with excellent postoperative outcomes and limited patient morbidity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 133:562-568, 2023.

Prevalence of atopic disorders and immunodeficiency in patients with ectodermal dysplasia syndromes.

BACKGROUND: Ectodermal dysplasia (ED) syndromes are a diverse group of disorders that affect multiple ectodermally derived tissues. Small studies and case reports suggest an increase in atopy and primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) among patients with ED syndromes. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of clinical symptoms suggestive of atopy or immunodeficiency among a large cohort of children with ED syndromes. METHODS: A 9-page questionnaire was mailed to families who were members of the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias. The surveys were completed by parents of children younger than 18 years with a diagnosis of an ED syndrome or carrier state. Portions of the questionnaire were adapted from previously validated questionnaires developed by the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC). RESULTS: We received 347 completed questionnaires (41%). When compared with the 13- to 14-year-old children surveyed by ISAAC, we found both all-aged and age-matched children with ED syndromes, respectively, had significantly higher rates of asthma (32.2% and 37.2% vs 16.4%), rhinitis symptoms (76.1% and 78.3% vs 38.9%), and eczema (58.9% and 48.9% vs 8.2%). The prevalence of physician-diagnosed food allergies (20.7%) and PIDs (6.1%) in these ED patients also exceeded known rates in the general pediatric population. CONCLUSION: This large-scale, retrospective study demonstrates a greater reported prevalence of symptoms suggestive of atopic disorders and PIDs among children with ED syndromes than the general pediatric population. A combination of genetic and environmental factors in ED syndromes may contribute to breaches of skin and mucosal barriers, permitting enhanced transmission and sensitization to irritants, allergens, and pathogens.

Preoperative Workup for Patients with Pituitary Lesions.

The pituitary gland plays a vital role in hormonal regulation. Pituitary lesions include tumors, cysts, and inflammatory processes that require multidisciplinary care from endocrinologists, neuro-ophthalmologists, neurosurgeons, and otolaryngologists. Treatment is typically aimed at controlling hormonal hypersecretion, decompressing the optic apparatus, and reducing tumor volume, and surgery is a common first-line approach. In this article, we provide a background on the function of the pituitary gland, common pituitary lesions, and their clinical presentations, as well as a summary of the history and physical, laboratory testing, and imaging required for the workup of a pituitary lesion.