Unsuspected and unrelated pathology noted on limited computed tomographic scans of the paranasal sinuses and temporal bone

Sinonasal inflammatory disease: pathophysiology, imaging, and surgery

The body of literature regarding imaging inflammatory diseases of the sinonasal cavity is extensive. This article will not recapitulate standard imaging protocols, osteomeatal complex (OMC) anatomy, or drainage pathways to any significant extent. Clinical and radiographic topics that create confusion for radiologists will be covered in some depth to include the pathophysiology of rhinosinusitis and bone response to inflammation. Fungal sinusitis is covered elsewhere in this issue. Clinical imaging issues will be followed by a discussion of common surgical procedures, their complications, and postoperative recurrent disease. The role of MRI as a problem-solving modality will be emphasized.