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Microbiology of chronic sinusitis
P B Van Cauwenberge1, K J Ingels, C Bachert
1State University of Ghent, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Belgium.
Acta Oto-Rhino-Laryngologica Belgica
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Viruses initiate common cold sinusitis, but bacteria cause acute sinusitis symptoms. Chronic sinusitis may involve opportunistic bacterial colonization rather than active infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious diseases
- Otolaryngology
- Microbiology
Background:
- The role of viruses, bacteria, and fungi in sinusitis remains debated.
- Recent findings indicate sinus involvement in common cold (viral rhinitis) cases, visualized via CT scans.
- Viral rhinitis alone does not typically cause clinical acute sinusitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe defense and pathophysiologic mechanisms of sinonasal infections.
- To clarify the roles of different microorganisms in acute versus chronic sinusitis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on sinonasal infections.
- Analysis of CT scan data in common cold patients.
- Discussion of microbial roles in sinonasal mucosa.
Main Results:
- Bacteria are key determinants of acute sinusitis presentation and outcomes, with S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and M. catarrhalis being prevalent.
- Conflicting reports exist regarding sinus normal flora, anaerobes, and chronic sinusitis microbiology.
- A hypothesis is proposed that bacteria play a minimal role in chronic sinusitis, acting as opportunistic colonizers.
Conclusions:
- While bacteria are crucial in acute sinusitis, their role in chronic sinusitis appears limited.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the microbiology of chronic sinusitis.