Isolated sphenochoanal polyp: A rare clinical entity

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
• Pathology

Background:

• Choanal polyps typically originate from the maxillary sinus as solitary growths.
• Sphenochoanal polyps (SCPs) are exceptionally rare, involving the sphenoid sinus and extending into the nasopharynx.
• Clinical presentation often includes headache, nasal discharge, and obstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of sphenochoanal polyp (SCP).
• To discuss the clinical presentation and endoscopic surgical management of SCPs.
• To contribute to the understanding of rare sinonasal pathologies.

Main Methods:

• Diagnosis was established using nasal endoscopy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Surgical intervention involved endoscopic removal via transnasal sphenoidotomy.
• Histopathological examination confirmed the polyp as inflammatory.

Main Results:

• A solitary inflammatory polyp originating from the sphenoid sinus was successfully removed.
• The patient's symptoms of headache, nasal discharge, and obstruction were resolved post-surgery.
• The endoscopic transnasal sphenoidotomy approach proved effective for SCP removal.

Conclusions:

• Sphenochoanal polyps are rare but important differential diagnoses for sinonasal obstruction.
• Endoscopic transnasal sphenoidotomy is a viable and effective surgical approach for SCP removal.
• Prompt diagnosis and surgical management are crucial for favorable patient outcomes.