Sinonasal carcinomas: epidemiology, pathology, and management

Neurosurg Clin N Am. 2013 Jan;24(1):39-49. doi: 10.1016/j.nec.2012.08.004. Epub 2012 Sep 10.

Abstract

Sinonasal carcinomas are uncommon neoplasms accounting for approximately 3% to 5% of all upper respiratory tract malignancies. Sinonasal malignancies in most cases do not cause early symptoms and present in an advanced stage of disease. Exact staging necessitates a clinical and endoscopic examination with biopsy and imaging. Tumor resection using an open or endoscopic approach is usually considered the first treatment option. In general, sinonasal carcinomas are radiosensitive, so adjuvant or neoadjuvant radiation treatment may be indicated in advanced disease. Multidisciplinary surgical and medical oncologic approaches, including ablation and reconstruction, have enhanced the survival outcome over the past few decades.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Adenoid Cystic / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Mucoepidermoid / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Humans
  • Melanoma / pathology
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Neuroblastoma / pathology
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors / pathology
  • Neurosurgical Procedures
  • Nose Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Nose Neoplasms / pathology
  • Nose Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects
  • Paranasal Sinus Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Paranasal Sinus Neoplasms / pathology
  • Paranasal Sinus Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Risk Factors