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Ear Nose Throat
Nose and Paranasal Sinus Cancer
Nasal and paranasal sinus cancers are located in an anatomically complex region and can originate from various cell types. They encompass the nasal cavity and the surrounding sinuses (maxillary, ethmoid, frontal, and sphenoid).
ℹWhat is Nose and Paranasal Sinus Cancer?
These cancers begin in the tissue lining the nasal cavity or paransal sinuses. Most are squamous cell carcinomas. They may spread to lymph nodes and rarely to the lungs, bones, or liver.
Other types include: Adenocarcinoma, Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, Lymphoma, Melanoma, Olfactory Neuroblastoma, and Neuroendocrine Carcinoma.
Common Symptoms
Unilateral Nasal Obstruction
A persistent feeling of blockage and fullness on one side.
Nasal Bleeding
Unilateral bleeding or sometimes blood-tinged nasal discharge.
Ocular Symptoms
Protrusion of one eye (proptosis), vision loss, double vision (diplopia), or excessive tearing.
Facial Swelling or Mass
Persistent swelling in the face, nose, or palate.
Facial Pain and Numbness
Pain, numbness, or tingling, particularly in the upper cheek.
Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Neck
Enlarged lymph nodes lymphadenopathy).
Diagnosis Methods
Physical Examination
Detailed examination of the nose, eyes, face, and neck.
Nasal Endoscopy
Endoscopic visualization of abnormal intranasal areas.
Biopsy
Definitive diagnosis via surgical, core needle, or excisional biopsy.
CT and MRI
Evaluation of bone invasion, soft tissue involvement, and metastasis.
PET-CT
Investigating distant metastases.
Treatments
Surgery
The tumor can be removed via robotic surgery or endoscopic minimally invasive surgery.
Radiotherapy
Advanced techniques such as IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy), VMAT, Proton therapy, and IGRT (Image-Guided Radiation Therapy) allow for safe application in sensitive areas.
Chemotherapy
Administered concurrently with radiotherapy (chemoradiotherapy) or as neoadjuvant therapy. Cisplatin and 5-FU are the primary agents.
Immunotherapy
Pembrolizumab and Nivolumab used in recurrent or metastatic cases.
Targeted Therapy
Cetuximab (EGFR inhibitor) may be combined with radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
Second opinion for Nose and Paranasal Sinus Cancer
A second specialist's review of your Nose and Paranasal Sinus Cancer diagnosis or treatment plan can clarify your next step. On eKonsey this review is done online.
When is a second opinion useful?
- When the diagnosis is unclear or more than one possibility was discussed
- When surgery or a long-term treatment was recommended
- When the response to treatment is not what you expected
About second opinions
- What is a medical second opinion?
- What is an online second opinion?
- What is a multidisciplinary second-opinion council?
Frequently Asked Questions
Last updated: August 30, 2026