Overview
Sinonasal cancer refers to malignancies arising in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, including the maxillary, ethmoid, frontal, and sphenoid sinuses. These tumors are rare but often aggressive due to late diagnosis and proximity to the skull base and orbit.
Symptoms
- Persistent nasal congestion or obstruction (one-sided)
- Nosebleeds (epistaxis)
- Facial pain or pressure
- Loss of smell (anosmia)
- Swelling around the eyes or cheek
- Double vision or visual disturbances (advanced cases)
Causes & Risk Factors
- Exposure to wood dust (carpenters, furniture workers)
- Nickel and chromium exposure
- Smoking
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in some subtypes
- Male gender, age >50
Diagnosis
- Nasal endoscopy and biopsy
- CT/MRI for tumor extent and skull/orbit involvement
- PET-CT for staging and distant spread
- Histopathological classification (SCC, adenocarcinoma, melanoma, etc.)
Treatment Options
- Surgical resection (endoscopic or open craniofacial)
- Radiation therapy (adjuvant or definitive)
- Chemotherapy (often concurrent with radiation)
- Immunotherapy or targeted therapy (for advanced/metastatic disease)
Prognosis
- Highly dependent on tumor stage, location, and histology
- 5-year survival ranges from 30%–70%
- Local recurrence common; requires long-term follow-up
Living with this Cancer Type
- Facial appearance and reconstructive concerns post-surgery
- Rehabilitation for speech, swallowing, or vision
- Sinus and airway management
- Psychological and social support
Prevention & Screening
- Avoid occupational exposure to dusts and carcinogens
- Smoking cessation
- Early evaluation of chronic nasal symptoms
FAQs
Q: Is sinus cancer different from nasal cancer?
A：They’re often grouped together under “sinonasal cancer” because of anatomical overlap.
Q: Can it be detected early?
A：Often difficult because early symptoms mimic sinusitis or allergies.
Q: Does it spread to the brain?
A：Yes, in advanced cases it may invade the skull base or orbit.
Resources
- American Head and Neck Society (AHNS)
- National Cancer Institute (NCI)
- ClinicalTrials.gov
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