VALUE OF SINUS RADIOGRAPHS IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF MAXILLARY SINUS DISEASE - INTEROBSERVER AGREEMENT ON SINUS RADIOGRAPHS BY OTOLARYNGOLOGISTS AND RADIOLOGISTS

Variability between observers and specificity of sinus radiographic fi ndings are subject to discussion. The aim of this study was to assess interobserver variability, between four physicians, two otolaryngologi sts and two radiologists, in the evaluation of 100 maxillary sinus rad iographs. Equal agreement was found within the specialities when ratin g radiographs as normal or abnormal (80%). Kappa values for interobser ver agreement were 0.45 for otolaryngologists and 0.58 for radiologist s, both representing fair to good agreement. Otolaryngologists reporte d more abnormalities (67 vs, 57). Agreement on specific findings (comp lete opacity, fluid level and mucosal swelling) was fair to good (kapp a values between 0.38 and 0.83). Agreement between the four physicians was lower on all outcomes. It is concluded that interobserver variabi lity is within acceptable limits and justifies the continued use of co nventional sinus radiographs for confirmation of maxillary sinus disea se.