Nasal and Paranasal Tumors

Diagnosis

Tests and procedures to diagnose nasal and paranasal tumors help identify the location, size, and type of tumor.

• Nasal endoscopy. A thin tube with a light and camera is inserted into the nose. The camera sends images to a computer so the healthcare team can look for signs of a tumor.
• Biopsy. A tissue sample is collected for testing, often during a nasal endoscopy or with a thin needle inserted directly into the suspicious area. Lab tests determine whether the cells are cancerous.
• Imaging tests. X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans capture detailed images of the nasal cavity and sinuses, helping to locate the tumor and assess its size.

Additional tests may be recommended based on your specific condition.

Treatment

Treatment for nasal and paranasal tumors depends on tumor location, type of cells, and overall health. Surgery is usually the primary approach.

Surgery

The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor completely, sometimes including surrounding tissue to ensure no cancer cells remain. Surgical approaches include:

• Incisions in the nose or mouth. This provides access to the nasal cavity or sinuses, allowing the surgeon to remove the tumor and affected tissue.
• Nasal endoscopy. A tube is inserted through the nose, and special tools remove the tumor with minimal damage to nearby structures, including the brain, eyes, and nerves controlling vision.

Other treatments for nasal and paranasal tumors

Additional treatments may be needed if the tumor is cancerous or surgery is not sufficient:

• Radiation therapy. High-energy beams from X-rays, protons, or other sources target and kill cancer cells. Radiation may be used after surgery to eliminate remaining cells or as a primary treatment when surgery isn’t an option.
• Chemotherapy. Powerful medicines kill cancer cells and may be used after surgery or alongside radiation to enhance treatment effectiveness.
• Immunotherapy. Medications help the immune system identify and destroy cancer cells. This may be used when the cancer has spread or other treatments are ineffective.