CT images of unilateral sinus lesions

Abstract

Computed tomographic images of 49 cases of unilateral sinus lesions were examined, and 4 findings were obtained as follows;1) On the C. T. images of malignant tumors, detection of bone destruction was easy, but its early erosion was difficult.2) Fungus infections and papilloma of paranasal sinuses demonstrated bone thickness as well as destruction, and this finding would serve as a differential point from malignant diseases.3) From the C. T. values of soft tissue shadows in the maxillary sinus, it was impossible to differentiate malignant from benign lesions. However, a calcified or non-homogenous soft tissue shadow was seen only in cases of fungus infections and maxillary adenocarcinoma in malignant tumors, and it would be clinically a very important differential point.4) Many of the unilateral sinus lesions will prove to be indications for surgery, except acute and allergic sinusitis. The paranasal C. T. examinations should be performed if the case does not respond to a conservative therapy over a month, and a case showing bone destruction by the C. T. images would require an exploratory Caldwell-Luc operation.