sinusitis Flashcards
what is it/
bacterial/ fungal infection of paranasal sinuses, usually preceded by coryza.
what other respiratory illness can sinusitis occur with?
asthma
what are the symptoms
frontal headache and facial pain
purulent rhinorrhoea
fever
when is it acute,sub acute and chronic?
Acute: 1 week – 1 month
Subacute: 1-3 months
Chronic: >3 months
what investigations should be done?
CT of paranasal sinuses and MRI
what colour are the sinuses?
they appear grey because they are full of gunk
why is an MRI done
to demonstrate bony landmarks
what is the treatment?
usually self limiting
nasal decongestants
broad spectrum antibiotics
topical corticosteroid
FESS (functional endoscopical sinus surgery) for ventilation and drainage
what are the complications ?
there are some people that get a secondary bacterial infection
the lymphatic drainage is straight back into the brain and this can cause a thrombus in the sinus in the brain - this is very worrying
what nasal decongestant is used?
xylometazoline
what broad spectrum antibiotic is used?
co-amoxiclav
what topical corticosteroid is used?
fluticasone propionate nasal spray
