A maxillary sinus cyst is a common, fluid-filled sac that forms within the maxillary sinuses, which are the largest of the paranasal sinuses located behind the cheekbones, above the upper jaw. These cysts are typically benign and often go unnoticed. They are frequently discovered incidentally during imaging for other conditions.
What Are Maxillary Sinus Cysts?
Maxillary sinuses are air-filled spaces located on either side of the nose, beneath the eyes. A maxillary sinus cyst develops when mucus-producing glands lining the sinus become blocked, causing mucus to accumulate and form a soft mass. This blockage can result from inflammation, allergies, or chronic sinus infections.
The two primary types of maxillary sinus cysts are retention cysts and odontogenic cysts. Retention cysts are the most common and result from the obstruction of mucus glands, leading to fluid buildup. Odontogenic cysts, such as dentigerous or radicular cysts, originate from dental tissues and can extend into the sinus cavity.
Recognizing Symptoms
While many maxillary sinus cysts are asymptomatic, some can cause symptoms. Common symptoms include facial pain or pressure, especially over the cheek and upper teeth, and headaches. Nasal issues like congestion, obstruction, and post-nasal drip can also occur.
Less common symptoms, particularly with larger cysts, might involve tingling or numbness in the face, tooth pain, or even dizziness. These symptoms can also indicate other conditions; if they persist, medical evaluation is recommended to determine their cause.
When a Cyst Becomes a Concern
While most maxillary sinus cysts are harmless, some can become problematic. A cyst becomes concerning if it grows large enough to exert pressure on surrounding structures, leading to significant discomfort, such as severe facial pain, headaches, or persistent nasal obstruction.
Location also plays a role; cysts near sensitive areas, such as the eye socket or major nerves, can lead to issues like vision changes, although this is rare. Cysts can also become infected, resulting in increased pain, swelling, and systemic symptoms like fever. In rare instances, very large cysts can lead to bone remodeling or erosion of the sinus walls.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
Maxillary sinus cysts are often first detected incidentally through imaging, such as dental X-rays or panoramic radiographs. For a more detailed assessment, healthcare providers typically use advanced imaging studies like computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These scans help determine the cyst’s exact size, location, and its relationship to nearby anatomical structures.
Treatment approaches vary based on the cyst’s size, symptoms, and potential for complications. For small, asymptomatic cysts, a “watchful waiting” approach is often recommended, involving periodic monitoring with imaging. Medications such as nasal sprays, decongestants, or corticosteroids may be prescribed to manage symptoms like inflammation or congestion. Surgical removal is considered for symptomatic cysts, very large, or those causing complications like infection or bone changes. Minimally invasive endoscopic sinus surgery, performed through the nasal passages, is a common and effective technique. Other surgical methods, like marsupialization, may also be used.