Sinus x-ray

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Sinuses

Overview

Risks

Results

Sinus x-ray

Definition:

A sinus x-ray is an examination involving images of the air-filled cavities in the frontal bones on the skull that are lined with a mucous membrane.

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation like light, but of higher energy, so they can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray.

Alternative Names:

Paranasal sinus radiography; X-ray - sinuses

How the test is performed:

The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider's office by an x-ray technician. You will be asked to sit in a chair so that any fluids in the sinus may be easily seen on the pictures. Your head may be placed in different positions as the pictures are taken.

How to prepare for the test:

Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. Remove all jewelry.

How the test will feel:

Generally, there is little or no discomfort associated with x-rays.

Why the test is performed:

This test is performed when symptoms of sinusitis or other sinus disorders are present.

Review Date: 1/24/2005
Reviewed By: Jeffrey J. Brown, M.D., F.A.C.R., Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.