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Published on: January 17, 2018
Paranasal sinus involvement in metastatic carcinoma
Francois Abi-Fadel1, Peter R Smith, Asim Ayaz
1Division of Pulmonary Medicine, University Hospital of Brooklyn at Long Island College Hospital, SUNY-Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, United States.
Journal of Neurological Surgery Reports
|August 16, 2013
Summary
Metastatic carcinoma in the paranasal sinuses is rare, with only 167 cases reported since 1951. Early diagnosis requires high suspicion in cancer patients with persistent sinus or facial issues.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Metastatic carcinoma to the paranasal sinuses is a rare clinical entity.
- Published literature since 1951 documents only 167 reported cases.
- Clinical presentation and diagnostic findings are often nonspecific, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on metastatic carcinoma of the paranasal sinuses.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges and clinical characteristics of this rare condition.
- To emphasize the importance of clinical suspicion in patients with known malignancies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search for reported cases of metastatic carcinoma involving the paranasal sinuses.
- Analysis of symptoms, signs, rhinoscopic, and imaging findings from published case reports.
- Review of diagnostic timelines and potential pitfalls.
Main Results:
- A total of 167 cases have been documented in the literature since 1951.
- Symptoms and signs, including rhinoscopy and imaging, are frequently nonspecific.
- The diagnosis of metastatic carcinoma to the paranasal sinuses is often delayed.
Conclusions:
- Metastatic carcinoma of the paranasal sinuses is an uncommon diagnosis.
- A high index of suspicion is crucial for timely diagnosis in patients with a history of malignancy.
- Persistent or recurrent rhinosinusitis or facial complaints in cancer patients warrant thorough investigation.
