Association between odontogenic infections and unilateral sinus opacification

Consideration of the causes of unilateral paranasal sinusitis, which frequently occurs in routine medical care and is often associated with odontogenic infection.

Retrospective data analysis.

A review of the charts of all 190 patients treated for unilateral paranasal sinusitis at our department between 2005 and 2012 was carried out. All patients were diagnosed based on clinical signs, symptoms, and imaging findings, including computed tomography (CT), orthopantomography (OP), and other modalities. Patients were classified in three groups: patients with odontogenic infection involvement (Group A); patients without odontogenic infection involvement (Group B); and patients with inconclusive odontogenic infection involvement (Group C).

The most common cause of unilateral paranasal sinusitis was odontogenic infection, as seen in 138 cases (72.6%), followed by chronic inflammation in 43 cases (22.6%). Among patients diagnosed with odontogenic infection, one patient was also diagnosed with coexistent polyps and mycosis. Based on CT, OP, EPT, and oral examination, final distribution was 138 patients (72.6%) in Group A, 32 (16.8%) in Group B, and 20 (10.5%) in Group C.

Odontogenic infection involvement was implicated in approximately 70% cases of unilateral paranasal sinusitis. Odontogenic maxillary sinusitis can be difficult to diagnose, and consideration of imaging performed under various conditions is recommended. In order to determine the most appropriate treatment for unilateral paranasal sinusitis, whether such treatment will be surgery, dental treatment, conservative therapy, or other treatments, collaboration between concerned doctors is essential.