Frontal Sinuses
The sinuses in the forehead are called the frontal sinuses. 1
Anatomical Location and Structure
The frontal sinuses are paired air-filled cavities located within the frontal bone of the skull, positioned directly behind the forehead region. 2, 3 These sinuses are part of the paranasal sinus system and represent one of the four major sinus groups in the human skull. 1
Clinical Relevance
The frontal sinuses have significant clinical importance due to their anatomical proximity to critical structures:
The frontal sinuses are located adjacent to the anterior cranial fossa, making infections in this region particularly concerning for potential intracranial complications. 1
Because of their location near the cranial vault and orbit, frontal sinus pathology has a greater propensity to cause serious complications including intracranial extension compared to other paranasal sinuses. 1, 2
The frontal sinuses drain through the frontal recess into the ostiomeatal complex, making them dependent on this drainage pathway for normal ventilation and mucociliary clearance. 1
Developmental Considerations
The frontal sinuses develop later than other paranasal sinuses during childhood, beginning their pneumatization after the maxillary and ethmoid sinuses. 1 This delayed development is an important consideration when evaluating pediatric patients with sinus-related symptoms.