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Updated: Oct 3, 2025
Identification of OTX1 and OTX2 As Two Possible Molecular Markers for Sinonasal Carcinomas and Olfactory Neuroblastomas
Published on: February 28, 2019
Olfactory Neuroblastoma: Surgical Treatment Experience of 42 Cases
Xiao Cai1,2,3,4, Zhouying Peng1,2,3,4, Hua Zhang1,2,3,4
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
Objective:
Our purpose was to estimate the safety and effectiveness of the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) in olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) and determine whether preservation of the dura and olfactory bulb could be considered in selected patients.
Methods:
We retrospectively reviewed patients diagnosed with ONBs between July 2010 and June 2021 at our institution, and collected data on demographic, disease stage, surgical approach, overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and postoperative complications.
Results:
The study sample included 42 patients (8 treated for recurrence and 34 initial cases), 28 of which were men and 14 were women with a median age of 47.19 years. The mean duration from the beginning of treatment and follow-up time was 8.91 and 51 months, respectively. Among the 42 patients, 32 had unilateral lesions, and the rest had bilateral lesions. Patient symptoms were predominantly nasal, and four patients presented without any symptoms. The modified Kadish staging was A in three patients, B in 14 patients, C in 17 patients, and D in 8 patients. According to the preoperative examinations, five patients had cervical lymph node metastasis, and no patients had distant metastases. EEA was used in 38 patients, cranioendoscopic approach in 3, and open craniofacial approach in 1. The 5-year OS and DFS rates were 89.1 and 79.2%, respectively. The 2-year OS and DFS rates were both 89.1%. The overall surgical complication incidence was 9.52% (one cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, one cervical hematoma, and two epileptic seizures).
Conclusion:
The present results support the importance of earlier treatment for advanced ONB and the fact that it is safe and efficacious to treat ONBs via EEA. The preservation of the dura can be considered for select patients-specifically those without skull base involvement and who underwent postoperative comprehensive therapy.
Insights
The endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) is safe and effective for treating olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB). Selected patients may benefit from dura and olfactory bulb preservation, especially with early intervention for advanced disease.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Oncology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) is a rare malignant tumor arising from olfactory epithelium.
- The endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) offers a minimally invasive option for skull base tumors.
- Assessing the safety and efficacy of EEA for ONB is crucial for treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) for olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB).
- To determine the feasibility of preserving the dura and olfactory bulb in select ONB patients undergoing EEA.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 42 patients diagnosed with ONB between July 2010 and June 2021.
- Data collected included demographics, disease stage (modified Kadish), surgical approach (EEA, cranioendoscopic, open craniofacial), survival rates (OS, DFS), and complications.
- Analysis focused on outcomes associated with EEA, including survival rates and complication incidence.
Main Results:
- EEA was utilized in 38 of 42 patients, demonstrating high 5-year overall survival (OS) of 89.1% and disease-free survival (DFS) of 79.2%.
- The overall surgical complication rate was 9.52%, including cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, cervical hematoma, and epileptic seizures.
- Advanced stage disease (Kadish C/D) was common, highlighting the need for effective treatment strategies.
Conclusions:
- The endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) is a safe and effective treatment for olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB).
- Early treatment is emphasized for advanced ONB cases.
- Dural preservation is a viable option for select patients without skull base involvement, particularly when combined with comprehensive postoperative therapy.
