OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the diagnostic value of symptoms, signs, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C reactive protein for acute maxillary sinusitis.

DESIGN:

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING:

Danish general practice in cooperation with the otorhinolaryngology and neuroradiology department at Aalborg County Hospital.

SUBJECTS:

174 patients aged 18-65 years who were suspected by the general practitioner of having acute maxillary sinusitis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE:

The independent association of symptoms, signs, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and concentration of C reactive protein in patients with acute maxillary sinusitis defined as purulent or mucopurulent antral aspirate.

RESULTS:

Only raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate (P = 0.01) and raised C reactive protein (P = 0.007) were found to be independently associated with a diagnosis of acute maxillary sinusitis. The combination of the two variables had a sensitivity of 0.82 and a specificity of 0.57.

CONCLUSION:

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C reactive protein are useful diagnostic criteria for acute maxillary sinusitis.