Our Summary

The research paper discusses a rare case of a benign (non-cancerous) tumor called Antrochoanal polyp (ACP) that typically originates from the lining of the maxillary sinus, a space within the cheek bone. Generally, ACP occurs on one side, but in some extremely rare cases, it can occur on both sides. The report describes such a rare case where a 44-year-old woman had these benign tumors on both sides of her nasal cavities.

The woman had been experiencing a progressive blockage of her nose for two years, along with mild headaches and a decreased sense of smell for the past four months. When her nose was examined using a special device called a nasal endoscope, doctors found that there were pale, polyp-like masses extending from the middle of each nasal cavity to the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat that lies behind the nose.

A CT scan revealed that these masses were soft-tissue tumors originating from the maxillary sinuses, passing through an opening called the maxillary ostium, and extending into the nasal cavities and up to the nasopharynx. The other sinuses were functioning normally.

Surgeons removed these tumors using a technique involving a nasal endoscope. Pathology tests confirmed that these tumors were benign inflammatory nasal polyps, meaning they were non-cancerous and caused by inflammation.

FAQs

  1. What is an Antrochonal Polyp (ACP)?
  2. What are the symptoms of ACP?
  3. How are nasal polyps removed surgically?

Doctor’s Tip

After nasal polyp removal, it is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully. This may include using saline nasal sprays or rinses to keep the nasal passages moist, avoiding strenuous activities that could increase nasal pressure, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing and prevent recurrence. It is also important to inform your doctor of any persistent symptoms or concerns following the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended nasal polyp removal are those who experience symptoms such as nasal obstruction, headache, decreased sense of smell, and have polypoidal masses in the nasal cavities. In the case of bilateral antrochonal polyps, surgery may be necessary to remove the tumors and improve the patient’s symptoms. Other factors that may indicate the need for nasal polyp removal include recurrent sinus infections, sinus pressure, and difficulty breathing through the nose. Ultimately, the decision to undergo nasal polyp removal is based on the individual patient’s symptoms and the severity of their condition.

Timeline

Before nasal polyp removal:

  • Patient experiences progressive nasal obstruction for the past 2 years
  • Slight headache
  • Decreased sense of smell in the last four months
  • Pale polypoidal masses seen in nasal cavities during nasal endoscopy
  • Soft-tissue masses seen in maxillary sinuses on computed tomography

After nasal polyp removal:

  • Surgical removal of the tumors using nasal endoscopy technique
  • Histopathology examination reveals benign inflammatory nasal polyps
  • Relief from nasal obstruction
  • Improvement in sense of smell
  • Resolution of headache symptoms

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with nasal polyp removal surgery?
  2. What is the expected recovery time after the surgery?
  3. Will I need to take any medications or follow a specific post-operative care plan?
  4. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps?
  5. Will I need to undergo any follow-up appointments or tests after the surgery?
  6. How likely is it that the nasal polyps will come back after they have been removed?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that could be considered for nasal polyps?
  8. How long have you been performing nasal polyp removal surgeries and what is your success rate?
  9. Can you provide me with information on what to expect during the surgical procedure?
  10. Are there any specific warning signs or symptoms that I should watch for after the surgery that may indicate a complication?

Reference

Authors: Iziki O, Rouadi S, Abada RL, Roubal M, Mahtar M. Journal: J Surg Case Rep. 2019 Mar 20;2019(3):rjz074. doi: 10.1093/jscr/rjz074. eCollection 2019 Mar. PMID: 30906522