Tenderness to percussion over frontal sinuses typically indicates which condition?

Tenderness to percussion over the frontal sinuses is a clinical sign that is commonly associated with sinusitis. This condition occurs when the sinuses become inflamed or infected, leading to symptoms such as pain, pressure, nasal congestion, and sometimes fever. The frontal sinuses are located above the eyes, and when they are affected by inflammation or infection, they can become tender to touch or percussion.

During a physical examination, healthcare providers often assess for this tenderness as it can help identify sinusitis specifically. The presence of tenderness in this area suggests that there may be fluid buildup or inflammation within the frontal sinuses, which is characteristic of a sinus infection rather than other conditions.

In contrast, allergies generally produce symptoms of nasal congestion and sneezing, but would typically not cause significant tenderness over the sinuses. The flu may present with systemic symptoms such as fever and body aches but does not specifically cause sinus tenderness. An ear infection usually affects the middle ear and may cause ear pain, with different clinical signs associated. Therefore, the specific symptom of tenderness to percussion directly points to sinusitis as the most likely condition.