Exophthalmos revealing an olfactory esthesioneuroblastoma: A case report

Olfactory neuroblastoma or esthesioneuroblastoma is a rare malignant tumour, that develops in the olfactory neuroepithelium and is one of the rarest tumours of the nasal cavity. Ocular manifestations are uncommon. The diagnosis is based on histology: biopsy, immunohistochemistry and ultrastructural findings.

We report a case of olfactory neuroblastoma of the olfactory placode in a 36-year-old woman with orbital involvement. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the skull, showed a suspicious lesion with significant orbital and cranial extension. After anatomopathological study of the biopsy, a protocol palliative radiotherapy was established.

We discuss the clinical, radiological, anatomopathological and therapeutic aspects of this condition, emphasising the importance of evoking this diagnosis in the presence of unilateral tumour-like exophthalmos associated with suggestive rhinological signs.

Ophthalmological involvement usually occurs at an advanced stage of esthesioneuroblastoma. This case highlights the fatal course of olfactory neuroblastoma. As it can present with the comlex symptoms related to ocular and nasal sites. Early diagnosis is the key to better therapeutic choices according to its level of extension, purposing at the best possible prognosis for the patient.