Chronic sinusitis

Summary

  • Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses lasting more than 12 weeks.
  • Diagnosis is initially clinical. Nasal endoscopy may show inflammation, purulent discharge, oedema, or frank polyps.
  • Medical treatment includes prolonged courses of antibiotics, corticosteroids (intranasal or systemic), saline irrigation, antihistamines, and leukotriene receptor antagonists.
  • CT is needed if initial medical treatment fails.
  • Functional endoscopic sinus surgery is very effective for patients unresponsive to medical treatment.
Last updated: May 09, 2013
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