Related Experiment Videos
Optic nerve involvement in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Summary
This study reports five rare cases of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) affecting the optic nerve. CT scans revealed intracranial tumor spread to the orbit in three patients, highlighting a critical pathway for NPC progression.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a rare malignancy with varied presentations.
- Optic nerve involvement in NPC is uncommon, necessitating detailed investigation.
Observation:
- Five rare cases of NPC with optic nerve involvement were identified.
- Computerised Tomographic (CT) scans were performed in four cases.
- Intracranial tumor spread was observed from the nasopharynx to the orbit via the cavernous sinus in three patients.
Findings:
- CT scans demonstrated direct tumor extension pathways.
- One case showed extracranial extension to the orbit through the posterior ethmoid.
- Detailed imaging is crucial for understanding NPC spread patterns.
Implications:
- Early detection of optic nerve involvement in NPC is vital for prognosis.
- Understanding tumor spread routes aids in treatment planning.
- This case series emphasizes the importance of neuro-imaging in advanced NPC.