Antrum maxillare, commonly known as the maxillary sinus, is a hollow, air-filled cavity located within the maxilla bone of the skull. It is one of the four pairs of paranasal sinuses, which are interconnected spaces found in the facial region.
The antrum maxillare is the largest of the paranasal sinuses and is situated bilaterally within the maxillary bones, superior to the teeth and below the orbital floor. Its shape and size can vary among individuals.
The function of the antrum maxillare includes serving as an area for the production of mucus to moisturize and protect the nasal cavity, as well as reducing the weight of the skull and enhancing the resonance of the voice. The sinus is lined with a mucous membrane that produces mucus to trap dust particles, bacteria, and other foreign substances that enter the nasal cavity, helping to prevent infections.
Pathologies related to the antrum maxillare can include sinusitis, which is an inflammation or infection of the sinus, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Other issues that can affect the maxillary sinus include polyps, cysts, tumors, and dental infections that can spread to the sinus.
In medical and dental practices, the antrum maxillare is often of interest for radiological imaging and evaluation, particularly when sinus-related diseases or dental procedures are involved.
