Skull x rays Health Article

Definition

Skull x rays are performed to examine the nose, sinuses, and facial bones. These studies may also be referred to as sinus or maxilofacial x rays. X-ray studies produce films, also known as radiographs, by aiming x rays at bones and soft tissues of the body. X-ray beams are similar to light waves, except their shorter wavelength allows them to penetrate dense substances, producing images and shadows on film.

Purpose

Doctors may order skull x rays to aid in the diagnosis of a variety of diseases or injuries, such as:

Sinusitis

Air in sinuses will show up on a radiograph as black, but fluid will be cloudy or white (opaque). This helps the radiologist to identify fluid in the sinuses. In chronic sinusitis, the radiologist may also note thickening or hardening of the bony wall of an infected sinus.

Fractures

Radiologists may recognize facial bone fractures as a line of defect.

Tumors

Tumors may be visible if the bony sinus wall or other bones are distorted or destroyed. Abnormal findings may result in follow-up imaging studies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT).

Other

Skull x rays may also detect disorders that show up as changes in bone structure, such as Paget's disease of the bone or acromegaly (a disorder associated with excess growth hormone from the pituitary gland). Areas of calcification (a gathering of calcium deposits), depending on their appearance and distribution, may indicate a condition such as an infection of bone or bone marrow (osteomyelitis).

Precautions

As with any x-ray procedure, women who may be pregnant are advised against having a skull x ray if it is not absolutely necessary. However, a lead apron may be worn across the abdomen during the procedure to protect the fetus. Children are also more sensitive to x-ray exposure. Children of both sexes should wear a protective covering (a lead apron) in the genital/reproductive area. In general, skull x-ray exposure is minimal and x-ray equipment and procedures are monitored to ensure radiation safety.