An average of 4 days are lost from work each year because of acute sinusitis. Acute sinusitis typically follows a viral upper respiratory infection or an allergic reaction. Swelling of the nasal mucous membranes may obstruct drainage from the sinus outflow tracts, causing mucus to collect in the paranasal sinuses. This pool of retained secretions may become infected, leading to congestion and inflammation of the sinus mucosa and the classic symptoms associated with sinusitis.
Treatment is aimed at killing the overgrown bacteria and cleansing the sinuses.
This format provides a ready reference for any physician who evaluates and treats a patient with suspected sinusitis. In particular, the algorithm and its accompanying annotations are designed to present a global and useful approach to both diagnosis and management. Clinical decision points are clearly shown, and each of these proceeds step-wise to logical implementation strategies. If further justification is required at any step in the algorithm, the evidentiary-based guidelines text can and should be consulted. In addition, guidance about appropriate referral of refractory cases, either because of treatment failure or for further investigation of possible associated conditions, is provided.