Role of Multi Detector Computed Tomography in Paranasal Sinus Pathology

Background: Paranasal sinus (PNS) pathologies are common clinical conditions presenting with nonspecific symptoms, often necessitating imaging for definitive diagnosis. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) provides detailed evaluation of sinonasal anatomy and disease extent.

Objective: To assess the diagnostic role of MDCT in detecting PNS pathologies and to analyze the statistical association between clinical presentation, demographic variables, and MDCT findings.

Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on 50 patients with suspected PNS pathology who underwent MDCT using a 128-slice CT scanner. Clinical symptoms, age, gender distribution, and imaging findings were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The highest prevalence of PNS pathology was observed in the 21–30-year age group (28%), followed by 41–50 years (20%). Male patients constituted 62% of cases, showing a statistically significant gender association (p < 0.05). Headache was the most common symptom (30%), followed by nasal obstruction (22%) and nasal discharge (20%), all of which showed significant correlation with MDCT-detected inflammatory changes (p < 0.05). Anatomical variations such as deviated nasal septum and concha bullosa were frequently identified and demonstrated significant association with sinus disease patterns (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: MDCT shows statistically significant diagnostic value in evaluating paranasal sinus pathologies, effectively correlating clinical symptoms with radiological findings and anatomical variations, thereby aiding accurate diagnosis and surgical planning.