Avian Sinusitis Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Sinusitis is inflammation of the infraorbital sinus and represents one of the most common upper respiratory tract disorders in avian species. The unique anatomy of the avian infraorbital sinus, which is the only paranasal sinus in birds, creates significant challenges for diagnosis and treatment. Unlike mammals, the avian infraorbital sinus drains

dorsally into the nasal cavity, making natural drainage extremely difficult and predisposing birds to chronic infections.

Sinusitis is particularly prevalent in psittacine birds (especially African grey parrots, cockatiels, and Amazon parrots), poultry (turkeys are more severely affected than chickens), and game birds. Understanding the etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and treatment options is essential for the NAVLE/BCSE examinations.