Utility, Appropriateness of Request and Report of Computed Tomography Scan for the Diagnosis of Paranasal Sinuses Pathologies in a Sub-Saharan Africa Urban Setting

Abstract

Background: Computed tomography (CT) Scan is the imaging of choice for the diagnosis of sino nasal (SN) pathologies in sub-Saharan African setting. However, it is often requested by non experienced practitioners. We aimed to describe the utility and the appropriateness of CT Scan request forms and results in the diagnosis of SN pathologies. Method: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study in four health facilities in Yaoundé, Cameroun, from October 2018 to September 2019. All patients to whom SN CT Scan was performed were called for an appointment. After informed consent, data on the appropriateness and conformity of the request form were collected and compared to the guidelines of the French society of radiology. CT Scan results were also collected and the quality of the report was evaluated. Results: A total of 206 SN CT Scan request forms and reports were included, with a mean patient age of 37.7 ± 16.1 years. The request form was conformed to guidelines in 8.3% of cases and was found appropriate in 62.6% of cases. No CT Scan report had all the items required, and 159 (77.2%) reports were useful. The most common diagnosis in patients with abnormal results was chronic sinusitis (49.5%) and SN polyp or polyposis (19.4%). Conclusion: Most of SN CT Scan requested were appropriate and useful. However, the conformity of request forms and reports to the guidelines is low. Suggesting the need for capacity building for the diagnosis of SN pathologies especially for non specialists like general practitioners and nurses.