Our Summary

This research paper is about a rare medical condition known as Millers syndrome, described in a 6-year-old child. This condition, which is inherited, causes abnormalities in the face and limbs, such as underdevelopment of cheeks and jaw, cleft lip and palate, narrow airways, and bone and joint malformations. In this child, the researchers also found bleeding nasal growths that were causing complete blockage of the nose. These growths were surgically removed and tested. The test results showed that the growths were nasal polyps, or noncancerous swellings, that were highly blood-rich and contained a type of complex sugar.

FAQs

  1. What is Millers syndrome and what abnormalities does it cause?
  2. How were the nasal polyps in the child with Millers syndrome treated?
  3. What were the findings from the test results of the surgically removed nasal polyps?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing nasal polyp removal to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding activities that could irritate the nasal passages, using prescribed medications as directed, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing and prevent recurrence. It is important to keep the nasal passages clean and moist to promote healing and prevent infection. Additionally, the patient should be aware of any warning signs of complications, such as persistent bleeding or severe pain, and contact their doctor immediately if they experience any of these symptoms.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended nasal polyp removal include those who experience symptoms such as:

  1. Nasal congestion or blockage
  2. Difficulty breathing through the nose
  3. Chronic sinus infections
  4. Postnasal drip
  5. Decreased sense of smell or taste
  6. Facial pain or pressure
  7. Snoring or sleep apnea
  8. Persistent runny nose

Patients with severe symptoms that do not respond to medications or other treatments may be candidates for nasal polyp removal. Additionally, patients with nasal polyps that are causing complications, such as complete blockage of the nasal passages, as seen in the case of the child with Millers syndrome, may also be recommended for surgical removal.

Timeline

Before nasal polyp removal:

  • The patient experiences symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, decreased sense of smell, facial pain or pressure, and postnasal drip.
  • The patient may undergo a physical examination, nasal endoscopy, and imaging tests such as CT scans to diagnose nasal polyps.
  • Treatment may include medications such as corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and shrink the polyps, as well as nasal irrigation to help with symptoms.

After nasal polyp removal:

  • The patient undergoes a surgical procedure to remove the nasal polyps, which may be performed using endoscopic techniques to minimize trauma and promote faster recovery.
  • The patient may experience mild discomfort, nasal congestion, and nasal drainage after the procedure, which can be managed with pain medications and nasal sprays.
  • The patient’s symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and loss of smell improve gradually over time as the nasal passages heal and inflammation subsides.
  • Follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider are necessary to monitor the patient’s recovery, ensure that the nasal polyps do not recur, and adjust treatment as needed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of nasal polyp removal surgery in my specific case?
  2. How long is the recovery process after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  3. Will I need any follow-up appointments or treatments after the surgery?
  4. Are there any potential complications or side effects associated with nasal polyp removal surgery?
  5. What is the success rate of nasal polyp removal surgery in patients with my condition?
  6. Will the removal of nasal polyps improve my symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or frequent sinus infections?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or medications I should consider after nasal polyp removal surgery to prevent the growth of new polyps?
  8. Can you explain the test results that showed the nasal polyps were highly blood-rich and contained a complex sugar?
  9. Is there a genetic component to nasal polyps, and should I consider genetic testing for my condition?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies for nasal polyps that I should consider before opting for surgery?

Reference

Authors: Pathan S. Journal: Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2025 Jan;77(1):553-555. doi: 10.1007/s12070-024-05192-8. Epub 2024 Nov 11. PMID: 40066392