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Ethmoiditis

Definition

Ethmoiditis is an inflammation of the ethmoidal cells in the sinuses, the air-filled cavities behind the nose and between the eyes.

See also: Sinusitis

Causes

Ethmoid sinus infections are most commonly caused by bacteria, although fungi and viruses can play a role.

Symptoms

Symptoms usually include a headache between the eyes and a runny nose.

Symptoms of more serious infections can include loss of vision, double vision, or redness or bulging of the eyes (orbital cellulitis).

References

Ferguson BJ, Johnson JT. Infectious causes of rhinosinusitis. In: Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, Robbins KT, Thomas JR, eds. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2005:chap 50.

Brook K. Acute and chronic bacterial sinusitis. Infect Dis Clin North Am. 2007;21:427-448, vii.

Review Date: 8/3/2011
Reviewed By: Alan Lipkin, M.D., private practice specializing in otolaryngology, Denver, CO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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