Asymptomatic radiological changes in computer tomography in children with head trauma

Abstract

Introduction: Computer tomography is an important imaging technique in Emergency Units. Due to its popularity, there are radiological changes found in healthy children more commonly. The aim of this paper is evaluation of incidence of maxillary sinus radiological changes in children with head trauma who admitted to Emergency Unit of University Children Hospital in Lublin. Material and Methods: Retrospective analysis of computer tomography scans of children suffering from head trauma admitted to Emergency Unit of University Children Hospital in Lublin was performed. A group of 425 patients was analysed. Results: Maxillary findings were present in 81 cases (19.06%); in 38 patients (8.94%) the changes were unilateral, while in 43 patients (10.12%) the changes were bilateral. Maxillary mucosal thickening was the most common radiological abnormality, present in almost 12% of investigated cases (approximately 62% of all revealed changes). Maxillary total opacification as an isolated finding was discovered exclusively in younger children group. Retention cysts and maxillary polyps were found in a similar low frequency as maxillary opacification; exclusively in older children. Discussion: Asymptomatic radiological changes in computer tomography scans are common. Maxillary mucosal thickening is the most frequent asymptomatic abnormality. Maxillary polyps and pseudocysts are rare in paediatric population. Maxillary opacification suggests other more significant pathologies and require further diagnostics. Physicians should avoid diagnosing patients with sinusitis without proper examination only by radiological abnormalities. Paediatric patients with revealed maxillary changes should remain under regular laryngological control.