PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF ACUTE RHINOSINUSITIS

Unresolved viral or bacterial infection/ Exacerbation of Allergic Rhinitis

Edematous conchae: Polyps may develop

Excellent medium for bacterial growth

Cilia becomes paralyzed

Excessive mucus production

Sinuses are congested with mucus

Appearance of signs and symptoms (Present <4 weeks) Nasal discharge Nasal congestion Facial pressure pain Maxillary dental pain Fever Cough Ear pressure or fullness Anosmia

Due to paralyzed cilia

Due to excessive mucus production

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF ACUTE RHINOSINUSITIS

Acute Rhinosinusitis usually follows a viral Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) or cold, such as unresolved viral or bacterial infection, or an exacerbation of allergic Rhinitis. Normally, the sinus openings into the nasal passages are clear and infections resolve promptly. However, if their drainage is obstructed by a deviated septum or by hypertrophied turbinate, spurs, or nasal polyps or tumors, sinus infection may persist. This edematous conchae or inflammation on the sinus is a good medium for bacterial growth. The normal sticky mucus produced by the mucosas glands moistens the air and traps incoming bacteria. Ciliated cells of the nasal mucosa create a gentle current that moves the sheet of contaminated mucus posteriorly to the nasopharynx. But this cilia can become paralyzed during Acute Rhinosinusitis, causing an excessive production of mucus that were not able to moved by the cilia posteriorly causing the sinus to become congested. The appearance of the signs and symptoms may be present less than 4 weeks.