Failure of contrast enhanced computed tomography scans to identify an orbital abscess. The benefit of magnetic resonance imaging.
BACKGROUND
Acute sinusitis is a relatively common condition, which usually responds to medical therapy. In most cases, there are no sequelae or complications subsequent to this infection. However, like many acute illnesses, there are well documented complications of acute sinusitis, and in particular these include peri-orbital and intracranial spread.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of vigilance in peri-orbital involvement and the limitations of imaging techniques, such as computed tomography scanning. An illustrative case is presented to demonstrate this.


CONCLUSIONS
Magnetic resonance imaging scanning is a valuable modality in assessing complex presentations of peri-orbital complications of acute sinusitis.
McIntosh
D
D
Department of Paediatric Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Auckland Starship Children's Hospital, Grafton, New Zealand. david.mcintosh@adelaide.edu.au
Mahadevan
M
M
D000038:Abscess / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D000208:Acute Disease; D000293:Adolescent; D003287:Contrast Media; D004322:Drainage; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D009916:Orbital Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D012852:Sinusitis / Q000150:complications; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*
D003287:Contrast Media