May 10, 2011

Acute Sinusitis

Water's view radiograph of the paranasal sinus shows an air fluid level in the left maxillary sinus (arrows) of a 56-year-old man.

Facts:
  • Very common disease encountered by primary care physicians.
  • Diagnostic imaging is generally used in cases of recurrent or complicated sinus disease.
  • Plain radiography has a limited role in management of sinusitis
Imaging
  • Mucosal thickening, air-fluid levels, complete opacification of the involved sinus
  • Mucosal thickening seen in more than 90% of sinusitis case, but very nonspecific
  • More specific = air-fluid levels and complete opacification -- but seen in only 60% of cases
  • Interpretation can vary widely among observers, with a high rate of false-negative results
  • Radiography is not useful in patients younger than 3 years because of poorly developed sinuses
  • Because clinical judgment is sufficient to diagnose sinusitis in majority of cases, and empiric treatments are inexpensive and safe --- x-ray should be reserved for patients with persistent symptoms despite appropriate treatment.
Reference:
Okuyemi KS, Tsue TT. Radiologic imaging in the management of sinusitis. Am Fam Physician 2002; 15;66:1882-1887

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