Plain radiography versus computed tomography scan in evaluation of adults with chronic rhinosinusitis in Zaria, Nigeria

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) can be a debilitating illness with major socioeconomic costs and decreased workplace productivity. Till date, paranasal sinus (PNS) radiography continues to be the primary imaging modality for diagnosing CRS in most developing countries. Computed tomography (CT) scan – the gold standard imaging modality is either unavailable or unaffordable in these regions. Aim: The aim of this study is to compare plain radiographic and CT scan findings of the PNSs in adults with CRS. Subjects and Methods: After initial clinical evaluation and rhinoscopy, consenting patients were assessed using both plain radiography (PR) and direct coronal CT scan of the PNSs. Results: One hundred and eighteen (68 males and 50 females) adults with a mean age of 39.4 years were involved in this study. The percentage agreement between PR and CT for sinus abnormalities was