Are Maxillary and Sphenoid Sinus Volumes Predictors of Gender and Age? A Cone Beam Computed Tomography Study

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the applicability of maxillary sinus (MS) and sphenoid sinus (SS) volumes in determining gender and age. Materials and Methods:This retrospective study included cone beam computed tomography images of 164 MSs and 164 SSs of 82 patients (40 females and 42 males). Right, left, and total MS and SS volumes were estimated. The independent samples t-test, logistic regression, and Pearson correlation coefficient were used to explore their accuracy in determining age and gender.Results: Males had greater right SS, average, and total SS volumes than females (p=0.007, p=0.013, and p=0.013, respectively). The right SS volume had the best predictive power (65.9%) for gender. A regression formula using this parameter alone showed satisfactory accuracy. No significant correlations were found between age and MS or SS volumes (p>0.05). Conclusions:The SS volume is a valuable tool in determining gender, whereas neither MS nor SS are reliable predictors of age. A simple gender determination is possible with our regression formula using the right SS volume. Further studies are needed to investigate the role of paranasal sinus volumes with a view to develop formulations in determining age and gender in different populations.