Paranasal sinus hemorrhage: evaluation with MR imaging

Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging were performed in ten patients with paranasal sinus hemorrhage after trauma. Acute or subacute hemorrhage was detected on MR images by using T1- and T2-weighted imaging to identify the chemical state of the blood and to differentiate blood from mucosal thickening and sinus effusion. Surgical proof of intrasinus hemorrhage was obtained in only two cases. Displaced fractures, associated cerebral contusions, and traumatic encephalocele were well shown on MR imaging. Nondisplaced and minimally displaced fractures were better evaluated with CT.