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Sinusitis
Sinusitis is the inflammation of the mucosal lining of one or more sinuses.
It is infection of the paranasal sinuses (i.e., the cavities in the bones that adjoin the nose).
It commonly accompanies upper respiratory viral infections and in most cases requires no treatment. Purulent (pus-producing) sinusitis can occur, however, requiring treatment with antibiotics
The origin of sinus infection is much like that of ear infection. Normally the middle ear and the sinuses are sterile, but the adjacent mouth and nose have a varied bacterial flora.
Under the usual conditions, very small hairs called cilia move mucus along the lining of the nose and respiratory tract, keeping the sinuses clean. When the ciliary function is damaged, infection can be established.
Following a common cold caused by a viral agent, a decrease in ciliary function may permit bacteria to remain on the mucous membrane surfaces within the sinuses and to produce a purulent sinusitis. The organisms usually involved are Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and many other penicillin-sensitive anaerobes.
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