Computed Tomography Description of the Uncinate Process Angulation in Patients With Cystic Fibrosis and Comparison With Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia, Nasal Polyposis, and Controls

Abstract

Background: There is a medial bulging of the lateral nasal wall in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Aims: Uncinate process (UP) angulation measurements in patients and controls to objectify this bulging. Materials and Methods: Thirty CF, 17 primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), 13 chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps (CRSwp), and 30 controls were included. Angles were measured bilaterally on computed tomography (CT) scans: A, B, C on coronal sections, D and E on axial sections. Angle A was between the UP and the orbit inner wall, whereas the others were between UP and midline. Results: There was no significant difference between controls, PCD, and CRSwp. However, CF had 3 statistically different angles with controls, 5 with CRSwp, and 4 with PCD. Angle A average value was 126° (±16°) in patients with CF, 138° (±19°) in controls (P =.007), 145° (±15°) in PCD (P =.001), and 138° (±14°) in CRSwp (P =.001). Angle E average value was 35° (±10°) in patients with CF, 20° (±6°) in controls (P