Sinusitis

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, doctors may use these diagnostic procedures:

• cultures from the nose or sinus fluid: laboratory tests that involve the growing of bacteria or other microorganisms to aid in diagnosis.
   
• sinus x-rays: diagnostic test which uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones and organs onto film.
   
• computerized tomography (CT or CAT scan): a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called "slices"), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general X-rays.
   
• blood tests