Ethmoiditis

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Definition

Ethmoiditis is an infection of the ethmoidal cells in the sinuses. These are the air-filled spaces behind the nose and between the eyes.

Ethmoiditis is a type of sinusitis.

Causes

Bacteria cause most ethmoid sinus infections. Some types of fungus and viruses can also be involved.

Symptoms

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

Symptoms of more serious infections can include:

  • Vision loss
  • Double vision
  • Redness or bulging of the eyes

Images

Sinuses

References

Benninger MS, Stokken JK. Acute rhinosinusitis: pathogenesis, treatment, and complications. In: Flint PW, Haughey BH, Lund V, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015:chap 46.

Borish L. Allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 25th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 251.

Review Date: 
8/1/2017
Reviewed By: 
Ashutosh Kacker, MD, FACS, Professor of Clinical Otolaryngology, Weill Cornell Medical College, and Attending Otolaryngologist, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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