The lamellar cell: a radiological study and a new classification proposal.

PURPOSE: A pneumatized middle turbinate is called concha bullosa. Bolger classified it in bulbous, lamellar, and extensive. Lamellar cells could have a variable extension. We propose the first radiologic classification of lamellar cells.

METHODS

195 CT sinonasal scans were included in the study. Lamellar cells were classified into four categories according to their degree of aeration.

RESULTS

Lamellar cells were found in 47.7% of patients: unilateral in 14.9% of cases and bilateral in the remaining 32.8%. The most common lamellar cell is type 1, followed by types 3, 2, and 4; there were no statistically significant differences regarding side. A subgroup analysis was performed in 106 patients with no inflammatory diseases of the nasal cavity; there were no significant differences.

CONCLUSION

Cell types 3 and 4 are a complete pneumatization of the insertion of the middle turbinate; these cells are rare and could be associated with middle turbinate instability.