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Intracranial polyps in patients with Samter's triad
Anooj Majithia1, Taran Tatla, Gurpreet Sandhu
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Charing Cross Hospital, Fulham Palace Road, London, United Kingdom. anoojmajithia@hotmail.com
American Journal of Rhinology
|February 8, 2007
Summary
Nasal polyps in Samter's triad can aggressively extend into the skull base, causing structural changes. Surgical removal using a combined endoscopic and osteoplastic flap approach offers a safe and effective solution.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Samter's triad involves nasal polyps, aspirin intolerance, and asthma.
- Skull base dehiscence is a rare complication.
- Extradural polyp extension can cause significant facial changes.
Observation:
- Three patients with Samter's triad and skull base dehiscence presented with extradural polyp extension.
- Facial changes included hypertelorism and nasal bridge widening.
- One patient died due to unrelated trauma; two underwent surgery.
Findings:
- Histology revealed benign eosinophilic polyps with thickened basement membranes.
- Endoscopic resection with osteoplastic flap was performed on two patients.
- Both surgically treated patients recovered well with improved hypertelorism.
Implications:
- Nasal polyps in Samter's triad can exhibit aggressive behavior with intracranial extension.
- A combined endoscopic and osteoplastic flap approach is a viable surgical strategy.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing this condition.
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