What is the term for an acute inflammatory condition affecting the nasal passages and sinuses?

The term for an acute inflammatory condition affecting the nasal passages and sinuses is sinusitis. This condition involves the inflammation of the mucous membranes in the sinuses, which can lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, and sometimes fever. Sinusitis can be caused by infections (viral, bacterial, or rarely fungal), allergies, or other factors that affect the nasal passages.

Rhinopharyngitis, often associated with the common cold, specifically refers to an inflammation of the nasal passages and the throat (pharynx), and does not encompass the sinuses. Allergic rhinitis is primarily related to an allergic response causing inflammation in the nasal passages but does not specify the involvement of the sinuses. Sinus congestion refers to the blockage or swelling in the sinuses, but it is not a formal diagnosis of inflammation; therefore, sinusitis is the most accurate term to describe the acute inflammatory condition affecting both the nasal passages and sinuses.