Magnetic resonance imaging in sinonasal disease

Computed tomography (CT) is often the primary imaging modality for the evaluation of sinonasal disease. For some indications, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may provide additional information. There are established indications for using MRI in complicated sinonasal inflammatory disease, invasive fungal sinus disease, and sinonasal mass lesions. When MRI is used in the evaluation of sinonasal disease, it is usually used as a complementary modality in addition to CT. Magnetic resonance imaging in sinonasal disease can be used to further characterize the primary sinonasal disease process and to evaluate the extent of complications such as orbital or intracranial involvement. When MRI is used in sinonasal disease, it should be evaluated in the context of the clinical situation and CT imaging features. This will help radiologists provide a meaningful differential diagnosis to assist in clinical management.