What is ethmoid sinusitis?

The ethmoid sinuses are one of the paranasal sinuses; therefore, ethmoid sinusitis is a subtype of sinusitis. When inflammation is severe, symptoms may include nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal congestion, dryness of the nasal cavity, headache, or dizziness. So, what exactly is ethmoid sinusitis? Below is an explanation.

What Is Ethmoid Sinusitis?

Ethmoid sinusitis is a relatively common nasal disorder and a specific type of sinusitis. It occurs when bacteria invade the nasal cavity, causing infection and swelling of the sinus mucosa, impairing ciliary motility and disrupting drainage from the ethmoid sinuses—ultimately triggering inflammation. Ethmoid sinusitis can be classified as either acute or chronic. Acute ethmoid sinusitis results from purulent infection of the sinus mucosa; if left untreated or inadequately treated, it may lead to mucosal destruction and progress to chronic inflammation. Chronic ethmoid sinusitis rarely occurs in isolation and is often accompanied by neurological symptoms such as neuralgia, depression, and impaired concentration.

Knowledge Expansion: Treatment Options for Ethmoid Sinusitis

1. Medical Therapy

For acute ethmoid sinusitis, empiric treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to which the causative pathogens are likely sensitive is recommended. Clinically effective agents include amoxicillin-clavulanate and ceftriaxone (Rocephin®), typically administered for 1–2 weeks. Intranasal corticosteroids—such as mometasone furoate (Nasonex®) or budesonide nasal spray—are also prescribed to reduce mucosal edema and improve sinus drainage, thereby facilitating rapid resolution of ethmoid sinusitis. Additionally, mucolytic and mucokinetic agents—including standardized myrtle oil (e.g., Myrtol®) and carbocisteine (e.g., Bronchostop®)—may be used.

2. Surgical Therapy

Chronic ethmoid sinusitis commonly develops due to inadequate anti-inflammatory treatment during the acute phase or recurrent episodes. In such cases, endoscopic sinus surgery may be indicated to open the ethmoid sinus ostia, restore adequate drainage, and promote recovery.

The above provides an overview of ethmoid sinusitis. We hope this information is helpful to you.