A Typical but Underdiagnosed Nasal Cavity Mass

Area of Science:

• Pathology
• Radiology
• Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

• Respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartoma (REAH) is a rare, benign lesion.
• First described in the 2005 WHO classification of tumors.
• Often associated with nasal polyposis and occurring in the nasal cavity.

Observation:

• REAH presents as a non-neoplastic overgrowth of glandular tissue.
• Typically found in the olfactory cleft region.
• Can extend into paranasal sinuses.

Findings:

• Classical imaging findings include bilateral masses in the olfactory cleft.
• These masses cause widening of the olfactory cleft.
• Diagnosis can be suggested by CT and MRI findings.

Implications:

• Radiologists can suggest REAH based on characteristic imaging.
• Early diagnosis aids in appropriate management.
• Understanding REAH is crucial for differential diagnosis in sinonasal pathology.