Nasal and paranasal tumors

Diagnosis

The following procedures may be done to diagnose nasal and paranasal tumors:

• Nasal cavity and sinuses endoscopy. A nasal endoscopy is performed using a thin tube with a light and a camera on the end. This tube is inserted into the nose to visualize the cavity through a small camera.
• Biopsy. Using special tools, this procedure is performed to collect a sample of tissue for laboratory testing after the doctor finds abnormalities structure during a nasal endoscopy.
• Imaging tests. A Computed Tomography (CT) scan and a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are used to view the nasal cavity and sinuses.

A patient might be recommended to receive additional tests and procedures, depending on the individual factors and conditions.

Treatment

The type and location of nasal and paranasal tumor are some of the factors used as well as general health to choose appropriate treatment option for the patient.

Surgery

In most cases, surgery is performed to remove nasal and paranasal tumors. Surgical options may include:

• Open surgery. An incision is made near the nose or mouth to reach the nasal cavity or sinus. Then, the tumor will be removed through the open incision in the affected areas. (e.g., bones nearby).
• Minimally invasive surgery. Apart from surgery, surgeons use nasal endoscopy and special tools to gain access to the tumor. Surgeons insert the tools with a tiny camera through the nose to perform the surgery.

Surgeons strive to avoid damaging sensitive areas surrounding nasal and paranasal tumors, as they are located near critical structures in the head, such as the brain, eyes and the nerves which are responsible for vision, hearing, and scent control etc.

Radiation therapy

In radiation therapy, high-powered energy, such as X-rays and protons, is used to kill nasal and paranasal cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be performed either alone or combination with other therapy.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses specific drugs to destroy cancer cells for patients with nasal and paranasal tumors. Chemotherapy can be performed either before or after surgery. In certain cases, chemotherapy might be performed jointly with radiation therapy.