Name of the Condition

• Acute Maxillary Sinusitis, unspecified
• Also known as: Acute sinus infection of the maxillary sinus, Acute rhinosinusitis.

Summary

Acute maxillary sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses located in the maxillary bones of the face, usually caused by an infection. It results in symptoms like facial pain and nasal congestion.

Causes

• Bacterial or viral infections are primary causes.
• Often follows an upper respiratory tract infection.
• Allergies and environmental irritants may contribute.

Risk Factors

• Recent cold or upper respiratory infections.
• Allergies, particularly hay fever.
• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke.
• A history of sinusitis or nasal polyps.

Symptoms

• Facial pain or pressure, particularly around the cheeks.
• Nasal congestion and purulent nasal discharge.
• Reduced sense of smell and taste.
• Headache, fever, and fatigue.

Diagnosis

• Clinical evaluation by a healthcare provider.
• Nasal endoscopy for a detailed view.
• Imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans in chronic or complicated cases.
• Culture of nasal discharge to identify bacterial involvement.

Treatment Options

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections.
• Decongestants and antihistamines to relieve symptoms.
• Nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
• Saline nasal irrigation to clear mucus.
• In rare cases, surgical intervention (e.g., sinus drainage) may be necessary.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Most cases resolve with appropriate treatment within a few weeks.
• Regular follow-up may be needed in chronic cases or if symptoms persist.
• Good prognosis if treated appropriately, though recurrent episodes are possible.

Complications

• Chronic sinusitis if untreated.
• Spread of infection to nearby areas, causing conditions such as meningitis or orbital cellulitis.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Avoiding upper respiratory infections through good hygiene (e.g., handwashing).
• Managing allergies effectively.
• Avoid smoking and exposure to pollutants.
• Keeping hydrated to thin mucus and promote drainage.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Symptoms worsen or don't improve within a few days of treatment.
• Severe symptoms like high fever, vision problems, or swelling around the eyes.
• Recurrent episodes of sinusitis despite treatment.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Sinus and Allergy Health Partnership

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the condition is coded as "Acute maxillary sinusitis, unspecified" (J01.00) for non-specific cases.
• Verify that documentation distinguishes between acute and chronic sinusitis.
• Avoid coding errors by confirming laterality if more specific information is available in records.