CT Evaluation of Maxillary Sinus Aspergillosis: Morphological Patterns on CT

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: In order to classify the involving patterns of maxillary sinus aspergillosis on CT that will be an important guidance for functional endoscopic sinus surgery(FESS) and to evaluate CT findings of each pattern. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed CT findings of 37 cases of maxillary sinus aspergillosis which were confirmed pathologically. These were classified into three patterns according to the location:the maxillary pattern(I), the infundibular pattern(11), and combined pattern(Ill). All cases were correlated with FESS findings. We also evaluated CT density, presence of contrast enahncement and calcifications, and surrounding bony changes of each pattern. RESULT: The combined pattern was most commonly seen in 24 of 37 cases(64.9%). The maxillary pattern was identified in 8(21.6%), with 5(13.5%)cases demonstrating the infundibular patttern. These patterns were consistent with FESS findings. Calcifications were seen in 28 cases(75.7%). 31 cases(83.8%) revealed hypodensity and 16cases among them showed peripheral enhancement. Central high density with peripheral low density rim was shown in 25%(2/8) of the maxillary pattern and 12.5%(3/24) of combined patttern. Surrounding bony changes were noted mainly in infundibular pattern and combined pattern. Erosion of uncinate process showed all cases of both patterns. Erosion or elevation of ethmomaxillary plate was seen in 3 of 5 cases of infundibular pattern and all cases of the combined pattern. CONCLUSION: CT fidnings of maxillary sinus aspergillosis can be classified into 3 patterns according to their distribution. These classification could be helpful for planning FESS approach. Calcifications are the most characteristic findings of maxillary sinus aspergllosis whereas CT density or enhancement pattern do not contribute to diagnosis.