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The papillomas of the sinonasal tract. A comprehensive review
1Pathology Unit, ASST del Garda, Brescia, Italy.
Abstract:
Papillomas are uncommon tumors of the sinonasal tract histologically derived from the Schneiderian membrane. Three distinctive variants are described, the exophytic, the inverting and the oncocytic types. On physical examination, their appearance varies from exophytic-fungiform seen in the exophytic variant, to polypoid-papillary in both the inverting and oncocytic variant. The presence of an asymptomatic mass or epistaxis and unilateral nasal obstruction are the typical presenting symptoms. Clinically they tend to recur and, although benign, they may erode the bone laminas by pressure, especially the inverting type, causing proptosis and other co-morbidities. Malignant transformation is seen both synchronously, on a pre-existing papilloma, and metachronously after several recurrences of papilloma. Schneiderian papillomas are at a date a topic of controversy regarding their etiology, pathogenesis and biological behavior. Furthermore, histologic criteria to assess dysplasia and malignant transformation are ill-defined. The present study aims to comparatively review the histologic types of papillomas, their etiology, the currently available criteria for malignant transformation, their treatment and prognosis.
Insights
Schneiderian papillomas are rare sinonasal tumors with three types: exophytic, inverting, and oncocytic. This review examines their histology, causes, and malignant transformation criteria.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Papillomas are uncommon sinonasal tumors originating from the Schneiderian membrane.
- Three histological variants exist: exophytic, inverting, and oncocytic, presenting with varied physical findings.
- Symptoms include asymptomatic masses, epistaxis, and unilateral nasal obstruction, with potential for bone erosion and recurrence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comparatively review sinonasal papilloma variants.
- To discuss their etiology, pathogenesis, and biological behavior.
- To clarify histologic criteria for dysplasia and malignant transformation, alongside treatment and prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Comparative review of existing literature.
- Analysis of histological features and clinical presentations.
- Evaluation of current diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines.
Main Results:
- Papillomas exhibit distinct histological types with characteristic clinical presentations.
- Recurrence and bone erosion are significant clinical concerns, particularly with the inverting type.
- Malignant transformation can occur synchronously or metachronously, with ill-defined histologic criteria.
Conclusions:
- Standardized histologic criteria are needed for accurate diagnosis and assessment of malignant potential.
- Further research into etiology and pathogenesis is crucial for improved management.
- A multidisciplinary approach is essential for optimal treatment and prognosis of sinonasal papillomas.
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