Paranasal sinusitis in the aetiology of orbital cellulitis

ABSTRACT

Aim: The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of paranasal sinusitis as a cause of orbital cellulitis and to identify the commonest sinus(es) involved in our setting. Methods: A retrospective review of the case notes of 47 patients with orbital cellulitis admitted into the ophthalmic ward of the University College Hospital; Ibadan within a ten-year period (1988-1987) was done.Results: Sinusitis 34.2) was the most common cause of orbital cellulitis with the maxillary sinus being the most involved (38). Patients in the second decade of life had the highest prevalence of 56. More cases were seen during the dry season C November to February. Conclusion: Paranasal sinusitis is probably the most frequent cause of orbital cellulitis with the maxillary sinus being the most involved