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Updated: Aug 20, 2026
Identification of OTX1 and OTX2 As Two Possible Molecular Markers for Sinonasal Carcinomas and Olfactory Neuroblastomas
Published on: February 28, 2019
Olfactory neuroblastoma: the 22-year experience at one comprehensive cancer center
Eduardo M Diaz1, Richard H Johnigan, Colin Pero
1Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Unit 441, Houston, TX 77030, USA. ediaz@mdanderson.org
Background:
Olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) is a rare tumor arising from the olfactory neuroepithelium. There is no universally accepted staging system, and treatment approaches lack uniformity. We present one institution's experience with this tumor and the results of therapy.
Methods:
Thirty patients treated for ONB at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center between 1979 and 2002 were retrospectively reviewed. The diagnosis of ONB was histologically confirmed for each patient.
Results:
The mean follow-up was 7.32 years. In 77% of cases, patients received treatment with surgery followed by postoperative radiation therapy. Sixteen percent received chemotherapy as part of their initial treatment. Overall 5-year and 10-year survival rates were 89% and 81%, respectively. Nine patients whose disease was initially stage C had a recurrence. The mean time for recurrence was 4.67 years.
Conclusions:
The M. D. Anderson Cancer Center approach to ONB is complete surgical resection, usually involving a craniofacial approach, with postoperative radiation therapy. This approach seems to be curative in early-stage disease. Late recurrence warrants long-term follow-up.