[Radiologic imaging of chronic sinusitis in the adult]

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Otolaryngology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Chronic sinusitis diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation, nasal endoscopy, and imaging.
• Paranasal sinus CT scans are crucial for lesion characterization and surgical planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the indispensable role of CT scans in chronic sinusitis management.
• To define the indications for MRI in specific sinusitis-related conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of diagnostic modalities for chronic sinusitis.
• Emphasis on the diagnostic and follow-up utility of CT scans.
• Evaluation of MRI's role in complicated sinusitis and pseudotumors.

Main Results:

• CT scans are necessary for characterizing lesions and identifying anatomical variations pre-surgery.
• CT facilitates follow-up for treated or operated patients with recurrent symptoms.
• Plain films lack diagnostic value for paranasal sinuses.

Conclusions:

• CT imaging is the gold standard for evaluating chronic sinusitis, surgical planning, and patient follow-up.
• MRI is indicated for specific complex sinusitis cases and associated pseudotumors.