Which complication is associated with acute bacterial rhinosinusitis?

Acute bacterial rhinosinusitis, often resulting from a viral upper respiratory infection, can lead to several complications if not resolved effectively. One significant complication is orbital cellulitis, which occurs when the infection spreads from the sinuses to the orbital cavity surrounding the eye.

The anatomical proximity of the sinuses to the orbits makes this a possible consequence, especially in cases where the infection becomes severe or is inadequately treated. Orbital cellulitis can manifest with symptoms such as swelling, redness, and pain in the area surrounding the eye, as well as changes in vision. This condition requires prompt medical attention and often necessitates treatment with antibiotics or even surgical intervention.

While chronic sinusitis can develop from repeated episodes of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis, it is not an immediate complication of the acute condition. Meningitis is a serious infection that can arise from various causes, but it is less commonly associated directly with rhinosinusitis than orbital cellulitis. Allergic rhinitis is an entirely different condition and does not result from or lead to complications of bacterial rhinosinusitis.

Thus, orbital cellulitis stands out as the direct and serious complication linked with acute bacterial rhinosinusitis, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and treating acute infections effectively