Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 24, 2026

Endoscopic Septoplasty with Limited Two-line Resection: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Septal Deviation
Published on: June 20, 2018
Regression of a sphenochoanal polyp in a child
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. wkeatlim@hotmail.com
Objectives:
To present an unusual case of a sphenochoanal polyp that regressed and review the etiology of such polyps in comparison to the commoner antrochoanal polyp.
Study Design:
Case study.
Methods:
One was incidentally discovered in a girl aged 3 years, 8 months at postnasal mirror examination after adenotonsillectomy.
Results:
Computed tomography scans 1 month later confirmed the polyp, but three months later, MRI scans only revealed sphenoid sinus opacification. Sphenoidotomy revealed normal sinuses implying inflammation had resolved.
Conclusion:
This patient is believed to be the youngest reported to have sphenochoanal polyp, and the only one where the polyp had completely regressed. This regression suggests that sphenochoanal polyps may be more common than is thought but are mostly asymptomatic.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Equipment Required