Radiologic Variations of Nose and Paranasal Sinuses: A Ct Based Study

Abstract

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) refers to a group of disorders characterized by inflammation of the mucosa of the paranasal sinuses. Computed tomography (CT) scans used as the gold standard diagnostic modality of nose and paranasal sinus diseases. There has been a lot of studies regarding the anatomic variations leading to pathogenesis of paranasal sinus diseases. Considerable progress has been made in the medical and surgical control of these conditions; however, a large number of questions relating to the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of the diseases remain unanswered. Material and Methods: The study included 82 clinically diagnosed cases of chronic rhinosinusitis who underwent CT scan were taken into the study. Supportive data was obtained from nasal endoscopy. The anatomical variations and pathological findings of the nose and paranasal sinuses were seen in the CT scan. Results: The mean age (+ SEM) of presentation was 34.11 (+ 1.42) years while most patients were from the age group of 18 to 30 years. Males were predominating the study group with 62.2% while 37.8% were females. Most common anatomic variation was DNS with 92.68% CT reported patients. This was followed by Inferior turbinate hypertrophy, septal spur, concha bullosa and agger nasi cells. Conclusion: CT scan is considered gold standard for sinonasal imaging. Diagnostic endoscopy and CT scan is a must prior to any functional endoscopic sinus surgery. They help in assessing the extent of sinus disease and to know the variations and vital relations of the paranasal sinuses. CT scan assists the surgeon as a “road map” during ESS.