Dr Ronald Chin checks out Malignant Tumours of the Nasal Cavity & Paranasal Sinuses
Malignant Tumors of the Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinuses
Cancers affecting the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses are uncommon but can be aggressive. They are part of a broader category of head and neck malignancies, which can also impact the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, salivary glands, and thyroid.
Diagnosis & Evaluation
A thorough clinical history and examination are essential in evaluating these cancers. Diagnostic steps typically include:
- Nasal endoscopy with biopsy
- Imaging scans such as CT, MRI, or PET
- Chest X-ray (CXR) and neck CT for further assessment
Epidemiology
- Malignant nasal and sinus tumors are rare
- Most commonly affect the nasal cavity, followed by the maxillary sinus
- More frequently diagnosed in men than in women
- The average age of onset is in the sixth decade of life
Common Types of Tumors
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) – the most prevalent type
- Adenocarcinoma
- Neuroendocrine tumors
- Mucosal melanomas
Risk Factors
- Tobacco use
- Occupational exposure to substances such as wood dust and adhesives
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
- Often detected late, as early symptoms can be subtle
- Initial symptoms: Nasal blockage, nosebleeds (epistaxis)
- Advanced symptoms:
- Facial swelling
- Vision disturbances (double vision, bulging eyes)
- Cranial nerve involvement
Investigations
To confirm a diagnosis, the following tests are used:
- Endoscopy (to visualize abnormalities)
- Biopsy (to determine malignancy)
- Imaging (CT/MRI/PET for tumor assessment and staging)
Treatment Options
The main treatment approach includes:
- Surgical removal of the tumor
- Postoperative radiation therapy to reduce recurrence risk
Key Consideration
A malignant tumor should be suspected in patients with persistent unilateral sinusitis that does not improve with standard treatment. Early detection is critical for better treatment outcomes.
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Dr Ronald Chin is an Australian trained Otolaryngologist Head and Neck Surgeon.
After graduating as a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Dr Chin undertook further specialised training in Head and Neck Cancer at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
He has published many research papers and is an active teacher and scholar.
As part of his subspecialty training, Dr Chin has training in Laser, Da Vinci Robotic, Flex Robotic and complex surgical techniques.
In addition to specialised Head and Neck Cancer, Dr Chin also enjoys general adult and paediatric ENT Surgery and practices sinus, snoring/sleep and general paediatric ENT Surgical procedures.
Dr Ronald Chin works as a general Otolaryngologist, offering a wide range of surgical and non-surgical treatments including ear surgery, nose surgery and throat surgery. He provides treatment for chronic conditions such as tonsillitis, sinus problems and problems with hearing.
He is also involved in the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions such as facial paralysis, head and neck cancer and sleep apnea. As well as performing surgery on children, he also provides specialist care for adults, including the treatment of throat disorders, voice loss and ear problems.
Dr Chin has also served as a Conjoint Associate Professor at the University of Sydney, a Conjoint Associate Professor at Western Sydney University and an Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Technology Sydney.
