Introduction and objectives: Sinonasal adenocarcinoma is a rare epithelial cancer of the nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses and exposure to sawdust particles is a strong aetiological factor.
Material and method: Seventy-nine patients (78 men and 1 woman) operated on between 1986 and 2002 were studied.
Results: In 62 patients (78.5 %) there was a history of exposure to wood dust. The clinical factors presenting statistical significance in the multivariate analysis with prognosis were: the exclusive invasion of the middle concha (as good prognosis), recurrence and invasion of the dura mater (as bad prognosis). The actuarial survival rate was 36 % at 5 years falling to 28 % at 10 years.
Conclusions: Exposure to wood dust, even over a short period of time, must be considered as a high risk factor for the development of a sinonasal adenocarcinoma. This tumour must be ruled out in all patients suffering any type of sinonasal pathology.