Association Between Anatomical Variations of the Sinonasal Region and Chronic Rhino-Sinusitis: A Prospective Case Series Study

Abstract

SUMMARY Chronic rhinosinusitis is a chronic inflammation of the nasal and paranasal cavities. However, the main pathophysiology of these chronic conditions is poorly described and seems to be multifactorial. In the present study, we reviewed the computed tomography (CT) scans of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis to identify a probable association between the anatomical variations and chronic inflammation in the sinonasal region. Prospective study of the axial and coronal CT scans of 206 chronic rhinosinusitis patients between September 2010 and January 2012 was performed. The study population involved 100 males (48.5%) and 106 females (51.4%) with a mean age of 39 years. The ostiomeatal complex was reported patent in 43 subjects and was blocked in 36 patients. The nasal septa were significantly deviated in 117 (56.7%) patients. Turbinate hypertrophy was reported in 55 (26.6%) patients. Retention cyst was observed in 56 (27.1%) participants. Concha Bullosa and polyps were reported in 36 (17.47%) and 38 (18.44%) patients, respectively. Maxillary sinus was the most common site of involvement (67 patients). Our investigation revealed that there is a strong association between the presence of anatomical variations and chronic inflammation in the paranasal sinuses.