Bacterial sinusitis

Sinusitis may occur secondary to infectious agents, allergens, or pollutants. Bacteriologic studies carried out from sinus punctures revealed that Streptococcus pneumoniae and Hemophilus influenzae are the most common bacterial pathogens isolated. Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes are not uncommon pathogens. Complications of sinusitis, including orbital cellulitis, usually are due to infection with Staphylococcus aureus and H influenzae. The recent increase in certain areas of the country of β-lactamase-producing strains of H influenzae is noted. When the etiology remains to be determined in the patient with acute bacterial sinusitis, initial therapy with an oral cephalosporin seems warranted.