Sinusitis: an improved regime of investigation for the clinical laboratory

Clinical material from 200 patients suffering from acute sinusitis was examined cytologically and bacteriologically. Seventy per cent of specimens were collected by aspiration of the middle meatus, 20% by antral wash, and 10% by direct swabbing of the antra. A comparison of the results from these differing techniques is made. The bacteriological methods used and the isolates and their significance are discussed, and suggestions are offered for improving the routine demonstration of presumptive pathogens in this disease.