Unveiling Sex-Based Variations in Maxillary Sinus Volume: Implications as Key Factor for the Main Sinonasal Symptoms and Mucosal Thickening

<b>Introduction:</b> The maxillary sinus is the paranasal sinus most impacted by serious and non-serious pathological conditions and plays a crucial role in sinonasal diseases, often associated with symptoms like nasal obstruction, discharge, and facial pain. Advances in imaging have enabled precise morphometric analyses of sinus dimensions, aiding in the understanding of anatomical variations and their clinical implications.<b>Aim:</b> This study aims to examine the relationship between maxillary sinus volumes and sex, as well as their influence on patients' main symptoms and radiological findings of mucosal thickening.<b>Material and methods:</b> A descriptive observational study was conducted on 100 patients (200 sinuses) aged 20–45 years, presenting with chronic sinonasal symptoms. Sinus dimensions were measured using CT scans, and volumes were calculated using a standardized formula. Participants were categorized into two groups based on sinus volume, and statistical analyses were performed to identify significant associations with sex, main sinonasal symptoms, and mucosal thickening.<b>Results:</b> Males exhibited larger average sinus volumes than females, with significant differences in volume distribution. Nasal obstruction was the most frequent symptom, while nasal discharge was more prevalent in patients with larger sinus volumes. Mucosal thickening was significantly associated with smaller sinus volumes and was more common in females.<b>Conclusions:</b> Maxillary sinus volume exhibits significant variation between individuals. Category A (Small sinus volume) is more representative of the general population since it was the most prevalent type. Sex significantly influences maxillary sinus characteristics. Females are more likely to have small sinus volume and mucosal thickening. Males are more likely to report pain/pressure as a symptom.