[Extracranial olfactory neuroblastoma (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Head and Neck Surgery

Background:

• Olfactory neuroblastoma (esthesioneuroblastoma) is a rare malignant tumor arising from the olfactory epithelium.
• Extracranial olfactory neuroblastoma represents a subset with specific clinical and surgical considerations.

Observation:

• A 59-year-old woman presented with unilateral nasal obstruction, epistaxis, and dysosmia.
• Histological diagnosis of olfactory neuroblastoma can be challenging.

Findings:

• Complete tumor resection, including the fila olfactoria and lamina cribrosa, is the optimal surgical approach.
• Extensive resection of the contralateral olfactory region is not indicated.
• The case highlights the diagnostic difficulties and therapeutic strategies for this rare tumor.

Implications:

• Accurate histological diagnosis is crucial for appropriate treatment planning.
• Radical surgical resection offers the best therapeutic outcome for extracranial olfactory neuroblastoma.
• Further discussion on radiation therapy and prognosis is warranted for comprehensive patient management.