Benign Sinonasal Tumors

Overview

What are Benign Sinonasal Tumors?

Benign sinonasal tumors are non-cancerous growths inside the nasal or sinus passages. These tumors tend to grow slowly and do not spread to other parts of the body. The benign tumors can arise from any of the areas inside the nose or sinuses, including the lining, the blood vessels, the nerves, bone, and cartilage. If the tumor gets too big, it can affect your ability to breathe properly, as well as your sense of smell and even your vision.

Causes

Causes of Benign Sinonasal Tumors

Nasal polyps may be caused by increased inflammation in the nose. These are often associated with chronic rhinosinusitis. Other benign sinonasal tumors may be caused viruses. Often, no cause is identifiable.

Risk Factors

Risk Factors of Benign Sinonasal Tumors

Anything that increases your chance of getting a disease is called a risk factor. Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get a benign sinonasal tumor; not having risk factors does not mean that you will not get a benign sinonasal tumor. If you think you may be at risk, you should talk to your doctor.

Treatment

Treatment for Benign Sinonasal Tumors

Treatment for benign nasal tumors generally includes surgery through endoscopic procedures. The term “endoscopic” refers to the use of small nasal telescopes that allow all of the surgery to be performed through the nostrils, without the need for any incisions on the face. The nasal telescopes provide a clear, magnified view of the nasal and sinus areas. Through the endoscopic procedure, the surgeon delicately removes benign tumors from the nose and sinuses. Endoscopic removal of the tumor results in faster postsurgical recovery than open surgical techniques, can be performed as an outpatient procedure, and allows for excellent tumor control.