The normal human maxillary sinus mucosa. An electron microscopic study

The fine structure of the maxillary antral mucosa was studied in 5 cases. The findings revealed the similarity of the nasal and paranasal sinus mucosae. Certain differences were recorded denoting relative diminished activity of the seromucinous glands, diminished exchange between tissue fluid and blood, diminished number of cilia, delicacy and loosening of the epithelium. Thus, in inflammation there is lower resistance of the sinus mucosa to infection and easier penetration for microorganisms, requiring early systemic administration of antibiotics with postural drainage and antral irrigation subsequently in treatment.