Prevalence of anatomical variations and incidental pathologies in Antrum of Highmore detected by cone beam computed tomography

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to infer and record the prevalence of anatomical variations and incidental pathologies of maxillary sinus in patients presenting with dental and ENT problems who were subjected to Cone Beam Computed Tomography scans performed for Maxillofacial diagnostic purpose. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study we have evaluated 70 CBCT images (140 maxillary sinus bilaterally) from age group ranging between 14-65 years for anatomical variations and maxillary sinus pathologies. 140 CBCT images were acquired using PLANMECA MID PROMAX 3D machine and the images were analysed using Romexis Software. Results: The anatomical variations like prevalence of septa was found in 17.14% , sinus hypoplasia in 6.42% and pathological findings grouped as mucosal thickening was found in 16.42%, mucosal retention cysts in 7.14%, antral polyps in 9.28% and sinus opacification in 3.57% were observed. Conclusion: The high occurrence of pathologies in asymptomatic maxillary sinus emphasizes how important it is for the dentists to identify these potential pathologies of maxillary sinus in CBCT images. It is the duty of the dental radiologists to be keen enough to detect these pathologies and refer the patients with such pathologies to the concerned specialists for providing an early diagnosis, better prognosis and a comprehensive health care for the patients.