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Sphenochoanal polyp presenting with concomitant nasal polyps.
James R Tysome1, Hesham A Saleh
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK. jamestysome@yahoo.com
Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|February 24, 2007
Summary
A rare sphenochoanal polyp, often seen in younger individuals, was found with nasal polyps in a 54-year-old man. Endoscopic surgery under local anesthesia successfully removed the large polyp, resolving symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Rhinology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Sphenochoanal polyps are rare sinonasal tumors originating in the sphenoid sinus, typically affecting adolescents and young adults.
- Nasal polyps are common inflammatory growths in the nasal cavity and sinuses.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old male presented with bilateral nasal obstruction, potential obstructive sleep apnea, and voice changes.
- Imaging revealed a large left sphenochoanal polyp and bilateral ethmoid polyps.
- The patient had a history of dilated cardiomyopathy, contraindicating general anesthesia.
Findings:
- This case represents the first reported instance of a sphenochoanal polyp co-occurring with nasal polyps.
- A massive sphenochoanal polyp (7.5 cm, 41g) and ethmoid polyps were successfully removed via endoscopic sinus surgery under local anesthesia.
- The patient remained symptom-free at one-year follow-up.
Implications:
- Sphenochoanal polyps, while rare, can cause significant sinonasal symptoms and airway compromise.
- Computed tomography (CT) is crucial for differentiating sphenochoanal polyps from the more common antrochoanal polyps.
- Endoscopic sinus surgery offers a minimally invasive approach for complete polyp removal, reducing recurrence risk, even in patients with comorbidities.
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