Sinus x-ray

An X-ray of the sinuses may sometimes be used to confirm a suspected diagnosis of acute sinusitis.

An X-ray of the sinuses was formerly the standard method of diagnosing acute sinusitis in the sinuses behind the cheeks (maxillary sinuses) or behind the eyebrows (frontal sinuses). Because a computed tomography (CT) scan shows a much clearer picture of the sinuses and other structures, the use of standard X-rays has declined.

But standard X-rays are commonly used to help distinguish uncomplicated sinusitis from other problems that may cause similar symptoms, such as problems with the jaw joint, dental infections, or headache. The findings are often not reliable, though, so they should be evaluated with caution.

If complications of sinusitis such as a bone infection develop or if it becomes necessary to see more of the sinuses or bones that surround them, a CT scan may be needed.

Findings of an X-ray of the sinuses may include the following.

Normal findings on an X-ray of the sinuses will show:

• Normal bone structure.
• No evidence of fluid in the sinuses.
• No thickening of the mucous membrane.

Standard X-rays are fairly good at showing the frontal and maxillary sinuses (those in the cheek and forehead). They do not show the ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses as well.

Abnormal findings on an X-ray of the sinuses may show evidence of fluid in the sinus or a thickened mucous membrane. This is strong evidence of a sinus infection.