Sinusitis

The Sinusitis course is divided into five detailed units, each providing a deep dive into the anatomy, diagnosis, and management of sinusitis.

Unit 1: Introduction to Sinusitis
This unit provides an overview of sinusitis, explaining the structure and function of the sinuses. It differentiates between sinusitis, rhinitis, and rhinosinusitis, covering their causes, symptoms, and diagnostic criteria. Participants will learn how to clinically diagnose sinusitis based on key symptoms such as nasal blockage, discharge, facial pain, and loss of smell​.

Unit 2: Examination
In this unit, participants will learn how to perform a thorough examination of patients presenting with sinusitis symptoms. The unit emphasises general inspection, vital signs, and sinus-specific examinations, including percussion of the sinuses and nasal cavity inspection. Red flags such as altered mental state and orbital cellulitis are highlighted to ensure early detection of complications​.

Unit 3: Classification and Investigations
This unit covers the classification of sinusitis into acute, chronic, and recurrent types. It explains the importance of narrowing the diagnosis to guide appropriate management. Participants will also learn when and how to perform investigations such as skin prick testing for allergies, microscopy for bacterial infections, and imaging like CT scans for more complicated cases​.

Unit 4: Management
Unit 4 introduces a stepwise approach to managing sinusitis, focusing on clearing nasal blockage, reducing inflammation, and treating underlying causes such as viral, bacterial, or allergic factors. The unit covers both pharmacological treatments, like nasal steroids and antibiotics, and non-pharmacological options like saline nasal douches. Participants will also learn when to refer patients to specialists for further treatment​.

Unit 5: Example Case
The final unit presents a clinical case to apply the knowledge gained throughout the course. Participants will work through a case involving a patient with chronic sinusitis, learning how to manage symptoms, decide on investigations, and create a treatment plan. This case reinforces the stepwise approach discussed in previous units, focusing on practical, real-world application​.

This course equips healthcare professionals with the skills needed to effectively diagnose and treat sinusitis in a primary care setting, improving patient care and outcomes.