Prevelance of Haller's Cells: A Panoramic Radiographic Study.

BACKGROUND Infraorbital ethmoid cells, also known as Haller's cells can be seen on panoramic radiographs. These help in identification of various pathologies and patient symptoms. OBJECTIVE To determine the prevelance and characteristic of Haller's cells on panoramic radiographs. Infraorbital ethmoid cells are extensions of ethmoid air cells into areas of orbit and maxillary sinus. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study comprised of 1000 panoramic radiographs of healthy adults of the age 18-80 years. Each radiograph was interpreted for the presence of haller's cells. The data collected were then tabulated and subjected to descriptive statistics and chi-square test. RESULTS Haller's cells were observed in 19.2% patients. Majority of cells were present unilaterally (176 cells) while only 15 were seen bilaterally. Maximum cells were oval in shape, unilocular and single in number. CONCLUSION Presence of haller's cells helps in enumerating the differential diagnosis for orofacial pain and in avoiding surgical complications in endonasal procedures.