Sinusitis

A condition in which there is an inflammation in the sinuses, especially the paranasal sinuses. It may be caused by various agents including viruses, bacteria or allergies. Predisposing factors include inadequate drainage which may result from the presence of polyps, enlarged turbinates (the membrane-covered bony or cartilaginous plates on the walls of the nasal chambers) or deviated septum; chronic rhinitis; general debility; or a dental abscess in the maxillary bone.