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Sinus x-ray

Definition

A sinus x-ray is an imaging test to look at the sinuses. These are the air-filled spaces in the front of the skull.

Alternative Names

Paranasal sinus radiography; X-ray - sinuses

How the Test is Performed

A sinus x-ray is taken in a hospital radiology department. Or the x-ray may be taken in the health care provider's office. You are asked to sit in a chair so that any fluid in the sinuses can be seen in the x-ray images. The technologist may place your head in different positions as the images are taken.

How to Prepare for the Test

Tell the doctor or x-ray technologist if you are or think you are pregnant. You will be asked to remove all jewelry. You may be asked to change into a gown.

How the Test will Feel

There is little or no discomfort with a sinus x-ray.

Why the Test is Performed

The sinuses are located behind the forehead, nasal bones, cheeks, and eyes. When the sinus openings become blocked or too much mucus builds up, bacteria and other germs can grow. This can lead to an infection and inflammation of the sinuses called sinusitis.

A sinus x-ray is ordered when you have any of the following:

  • Symptoms of sinusitis
  • Other sinus disorders, such as a deviated septum (crooked or bent septum, the structure that separates the nostrils)
  • Symptoms of another infection of that area of the head

These days, a sinus x-ray is not often ordered. This is because a CT scan of the sinuses shows more detail.

What Abnormal Results Mean

The x-ray may detect an infection, blockages, bleeding or tumors.

Risks

There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated so that the lowest amount of radiation is used to produce the image.

Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of x-rays.

References

Beale T, Brown J, Rout J. ENT, neck, and dental radiology. In: Adam A, Dixon AK, Gillard JH, Schaefer-Prokop CM, eds. Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology: A Textbook of Medical Imaging. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2015:chap 67.

Mettler FA. Head and soft tissues of face and neck. In: Mettler FA, ed. Essentials of Radiology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019: chap 2.

Review Date: 08/12/2019

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Information developed by A.D.A.M., Inc. regarding tests and test results may not directly correspond with information provided by UCSF Health. Please discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.

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