CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which sinuses are visualized on a lateral view of the skull?

1. Frontal

2. Maxillary

3. Ethmoid

4. Sphenoid

The correct answer is: Ethmoid

In a lateral view of the skull, the primary sinus that is visualized is the sphenoid sinus. This is due to its position centrally and posteriorly within the skull base, which makes it accessible for visualization in this projection. The lateral view provides a clear outline of the sphenoid sinus, allowing for assessment of its size, shape, and any pathological changes. The frontal and maxillary sinuses are located more anteriorly and are better visualized in other views, such as the occipitofrontal or waters view. The ethmoid sinuses, while partially visualized on the lateral view, are also not highlighted as prominently due to their location between the orbits. Therefore, the sphenoid sinus is the most important and distinct sinus seen in a lateral radiographic view of the skull.