Our Summary

This study looked at the role of a certain type of molecule, called miR-663, in kids with nasal polyps - growths in the nose that can cause problems like a runny nose or difficulty breathing. The researchers collected tissue and blood samples from kids with these polyps, and compared them to samples from kids without them. They found that the kids with polyps had less miR-663 and more of another molecule, TGF-β1, which miR-663 helps regulate. This suggests that miR-663 might play a role in the development of nasal polyps in children, and could potentially be used as a genetic marker to diagnose this condition.

FAQs

  1. What is the role of the molecule miR-663 in the development of nasal polyps in children?
  2. How could miR-663 potentially be used as a genetic marker for diagnosing nasal polyps in kids?
  3. What was the difference in the levels of miR-663 and TGF-β1 molecules between children with nasal polyps and those without?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about nasal polyp removal is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully. This may include avoiding certain medications that can increase bleeding, stopping smoking, and following a specific diet before the procedure. Additionally, patients should be prepared for a period of recovery after the surgery, which may include nasal congestion, mild discomfort, and nasal drainage. It is important to follow up with your healthcare provider for any concerns or questions during the healing process.

Suitable For

Patients who are experiencing symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or decreased sense of smell due to nasal polyps are typically recommended for nasal polyp removal. Additionally, patients who have not responded well to medications or other treatments for nasal polyps may also be recommended for surgical removal.

Timeline

Before nasal polyp removal:

  1. Symptoms of nasal polyps such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and decreased sense of smell and taste.
  2. Consultation with an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) to diagnose nasal polyps through physical examination and possibly imaging tests.
  3. Treatment with medications such as nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, and decongestants to manage symptoms.
  4. In cases where medications are ineffective, consideration of nasal polyp removal surgery.

After nasal polyp removal:

  1. Pre-operative assessment and preparation for surgery, including discussion of risks and benefits with the surgeon.
  2. Nasal polyp removal surgery, which may be performed through endoscopic sinus surgery or traditional open surgery.
  3. Recovery period following surgery, which may include pain management, nasal packing removal, and follow-up appointments with the surgeon.
  4. Improvement in symptoms such as improved nasal breathing, decreased nasal congestion, and restoration of sense of smell and taste.
  5. Long-term management of nasal polyps with regular follow-up appointments, medications, and lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of nasal polyp removal surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of nasal polyp removal surgery?
  3. What is the recovery process like after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments to surgery for nasal polyp removal?
  5. How long will the effects of nasal polyp removal surgery last?
  6. Will I need follow-up appointments after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make after nasal polyp removal surgery to prevent recurrence?
  8. Will I need any additional medications or treatments after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  9. How common are complications from nasal polyp removal surgery?
  10. Are there any long-term effects or risks associated with nasal polyp removal surgery?

Reference

Authors: Yu H, Ju J, Liu J, Li D. Journal: Exp Ther Med. 2018 May;15(5):4550-4556. doi: 10.3892/etm.2018.5927. Epub 2018 Mar 6. PMID: 29849780