Aim: To study the computed tomography (CT) features of pneumatized inferior turbinate (PIT).
Materials and methods: A retrospective review of paranasal sinus CT over a period of 12 years showed 16 cases of PIT. The pneumatization pattern was analysed according to the classification proposed by Bolger. Pneumatization was classified into three types: bulbous, lamellar, and extensive.
Results: Fourteen patients had unilateral and two patients had bilateral pneumatization (n=18). Seven (39%) of the 18 PIT were bulbous, nine (50%) were lamellar, and two (11%) were of the extensive type. In eight (44%) cases there was communication between the medial wall of the maxillary sinus and the PIT.
Conclusions: The features of PIT can be readily identified on CT. Imaging helps clinicians to differentiate PIT from other causes of the inferior turbinate hypertrophy or complications.