Sinusitis

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Inflammation or infection of sinuses

• Acute = < 12 weeks
• Chronic = more than 12 weeks

One or all four pairs may be involved

Question 2

Causes

Answer 2

Usually secondary to URTI

Maxillary sinus infection may have dental cause e.g. abscess

Question 3

Clinical Features

Answer 3

Facial pain over sinuses
Nasal obstruction
Preceding URTI

Fever
Mucopus in middle meatus

Question 4

Investigations

Answer 4

CT (if planning surgery or atypical)

Question 5

Management

Answer 5

CONSERVATIVE

• Nasal irrigation
• Warm face packs

MEDICAL

• Analgesia
• Intranasal decongestion (max 1 wk)
• Antibiotics (in severe cases)

SURGICAL
-Enlargement of sinus drainage if chronic

Question 6

Complications

Answer 6

Orbital cellulitis/abscess
Meningitis
Intracranial abscess
Osteomyelitis of frontal bone