Anatomic variations associated with antrochoanal polyps.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Rhinosinusology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Antrochoanal polyps (ACPs) are common sinonasal tumors, but their exact cause remains unknown.
• Sinonasal cavity variations are frequently observed in patients with ACPs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between ACPs and various sinonasal cavity variations.
• To explore the potential role of sinonasal anatomic variations in ACP development and extension.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 144 patients with ACPs and 160 controls using paranasal sinus CT scans.
• Evaluation of retention cysts, sinus wall sclerosis, nasal septal deviation (SD), concha bullosa, and accessory maxillary ostia.
• Assessment of ACP posterior extension (middle meatus, nasopharynx, oropharynx) and correlation with SD direction.

Main Results:

• Higher prevalence of retention cysts, sinus wall sclerosis, SD, and accessory maxillary ostia in the ACP group.
• Significant negative correlation between the side of SD and the side of ACP.
• ACP extension observed in the middle meatus (32.6%), nasopharynx (56.3%), and oropharynx (11.1%).

Conclusions:

• Accessory maxillary ostium may accelerate the transformation of retention cysts into ACPs.
• Nasal septal deviation likely contributes to ACP development by altering nasal airflow dynamics.
• Understanding these associations can inform diagnosis and management of ACPs.