[Extranasal glioma. On the differential diagnosis of frontonasal abnormalities]

A case of extranasal glioma without other heterotopias of brain tissue is presented. The endonasal biopsy of this tumor presented histologic evidence of ectopic glial tissue surrounded by connective and mucosa tissue. Before any surgical procedure can be performed, radiographic (computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging) examination is essential to rule out possible communication of the tumor with intracranial space. Surgical excision is necessary to prevent deformities of the nasal structure from occurring. Previously reported cases of nasal glioma are reviewed and problems in diagnosis and management are discussed.