Maxillary antroliths detected by cone-beam computed tomography in an adult dental population

This study evaluated the prevalence and characteristics of maxillary antroliths using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans performed for maxillofacial diagnostic purposes.

CBCT scans of 13,946 patients over the age of 20 were reviewed for maxillary antroliths, and prevalence according to sex, age, and the side of the jaw was calculated. The relationships of single or multiple antroliths with sex, side, and the degree of sinus inflammation were evaluated. The shape and dimension of antroliths were also assessed. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the chi-square or Fisher exact tests, and Kendall's tau-b.

A total of 138 (0.99%) of the 13,946 patients showed an antrolith in at least 1 sinus. Only 18 patients presented a bilateral manifestation, which brought the total number of sinuses containing an antrolith to 156 (0.56%). Multiple antroliths were observed in 36 sinuses, and the total number of antroliths was 207: 110 punctate, 65 linear, and 32 amorphous. The antrolith dimensions varied from 1 mm² to 91 mm² (average, 10.2±15.5 mm²). No statistically significant differences were found according to sex, side, and age group (P>0.05). However, there was a statistically significant difference between the multiplicity of antrolith and the degree of sinus inflammation (P<0.05).

Cone-beam computed tomography is an effective modality for the detection of incidental antroliths. Maxillary antroliths were found to be very rare and were usually asymptomatic. Dentists should have a comprehensive understanding of their diagnosis and treatment in light of possible associated dental problems.