Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 28, 2026

Characterization of Inflammatory Responses During Intranasal Colonization with Streptococcus pneumoniae
Published on: January 17, 2014
Role of anaerobes in chronic sinusitis: Will polymerase chain reaction solve the debate
Hassan H Ramadan1, Peter H Mathers, Heather Schwartzbauer
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, West Virginia University, Morgantown 26506-9200, USA.
Background:
Bacteriology of chronic sinusitis continues to be a matter of debate, particularly the role of anaerobes. Some authors suggest that anaerobes play a significant role whereas others suggest a minimal role. Those who suggest a significant role argue that standard culture techniques are the culprits.
Objective:
The purpose of this study was to use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on sinus specimens for the presence of anaerobes and to compare them with standard culture techniques.
Methods:
Sixty-four samples were obtained in a sterile fashion during sinus surgery and were sent for standard anaerobic cultures as well as anaerobic PCR analysis.
Results:
Anaerobic bacteria were demonstrated in 5% of culture specimens, which is similar to recently published data. PCR identified anaerobic bacteria in 19% of the specimens (P = 0.01).
Conclusion:
PCR analysis of surgical samples obtained during endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic sinusitis identified a significantly higher incidence of anaerobes (x4) compared with standard anaerobic culture technique.
Related Concept Videos
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract
Atypical Pneumonia
Bacterial Phylum Spirochaetes
Bacterial Phylum Actinobacteria

