Nasal cancer is a rare and fatal disease, accounting for only 3-5% os all head and neck cancers. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of cancer found in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.
Men are twice as likely as women to be diagnosed with these cancers, and the majority of cases occur in people over 55 years.
As it’s a rare condition, it requires early diagnosis and timely treatment.
In this blog, we’ll explore what these cancers are, how they present, their symptoms, and the available treatment options.
What is Nasal and Sinus Cancer?
Nasal and sinus cancer is a rare disease that affects the nasal cavity (space behind the nose) through which air passes during breathing. These cancers occur when cells grow abnormally in the tissues of these regions. The cells may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Nasal and sinus cancers are different from the cancer of the area where the nose and throat connect.
Types of Nasal and Sinus Cancer
Different types of cancers can develop in the nasal and sinus areas:
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: It is the most common type of cancer that arises from the nasal cavity and sinus lining.
- Adenocarcinoma: This cancer starts in the glandular cells and is associated with exposure to wood and dust.
- Melanoma: It can develop in the nasal passage, but it occurs rarely.
- Esthesioneuroblastoma: It is an uncommon tumor that starts in the nerve tissue near the nasal cavity roof.
Who is at Risk for Nasal and Sinus Cancer?
Common risk factors for developing nasal and sinus cancers are:
- People aged 55 or older
- Individuals working with wood dust, leather dust, and certain chemicals
- White people
- People who consume excessive alcohol and smoke regularly
- Family history
- People who had chronic sinusitis, previous head and neck cancers, and compromised immune systems
Signs and Symptoms
In the initial stages of nasal and paranasal sinus cancers, they generally resemble symptoms of common sinus infections or allergies, which makes them difficult to diagnose. It is suggested that one should not ignore persistent or worsening symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
- Chronic nasal congestion and stuffiness
- Nosebleeds and pus draining from the nose
- One side of the nose blockage
- Frequent headaches
- Lost sense of smell
- Facial pain or pressure
- Post-nasal drip
- Constant watery eye and bulging of one eye
- Double vision
- Pain around the nose, eyes, ears, and cheeks
- Loosening of teeth
- Hearing loss
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- A lump inside the nose or mouth
It is vital to seek medical attention, if these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks.
Stages of Nasal and Paranasal Cancers
Generally, there are four stages to determine the extent of nasal or paranasal cancer:
- Stage 1: The tumor is inside the nasal cavity or paranasal sinus
- Stage 2: Spreading of the tumor to other parts of the nasal cavity or paranasal sinus
- Stage 3: Tumor has spread to the sinus bones or the eye socket
- Stage 4: Tumor has spread to other parts of the body, such as the brain, neck, or skull, and lymph nodes
These stages help the medical professional to decide the appropriate treatment plan for the patient.
How to Diagnose Nasal Cancer?
Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. After performing a physical examination, the healthcare provider will recommend some tests, including:
- Nasal Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a light and camera is used to look inside the nasal passages and sinuses.
- Imaging Tests: Tests such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans to identify the size, location, and extent of the tumor.
- Blood Tests: A small sample of blood is taken to rule out infection or assess organ function.
- Biopsy: A small sample of tissue from the tumor is taken and examined under the microscope.
Treatment Options for Nasal and Paranasal Sinus Cancers
Different treatments for nasal cancer depend on the type, stage, and location of the cancer. Treatments include:
Surgery
- It is the first line of treatment for removing the tumor.
- When the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, it will also be removed by surgery.
- Depending on the extent of the tumor, doctors may perform open surgery, endoscopic surgery, or reconstructive surgery will be performed if facial structures are affected.
Radiation Therapy
- It uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
- It can be used as a stand-alone treatment or combined with surgery or chemotherapy.
- People who can not undergo surgery can opt for radiation therapy.
Chemotherapy
- It involves medications that are given orally or intravenously to shrink the tumors or kill remaining cancer cells.
- It can be used before or after the surgery or in combination with radiation therapy.
Also Read:- Chemotherapy cost in India
Recovery After the Treatment
- Recovery time may vary and depends on person to person
- Some people resume their normal activities within weeks, while others may take months
- Regular follow-up is vital for monitoring recurrence and managing any side effects
- Some people may also need physical or speech therapy, depending on the treatment type
Can Nasal Cancer Be Prevented?
Nasal infections can’t be fully prevented, but following some proactive steps can reduce the risks, including:
- Minimizing exposure to wood and leather dust, or other chemicals
- Quit smoking
- Avoid alcohol or limit its intake
- Maintain nasal hygiene and health
- Regular medical check-ups
By managing risk factors and staying vigilant about symptoms, one can catch the cancer in its early stage when it’s most treatable.
Also Read:- Best Hospitals in India
Takeaway
Nasal tumors are rare and can be aggressive if left untreated. Early detection and prompt treatment are vital for better outcomes. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms or has been diagnosed with nasal or sinus cancer, do not delay care. Acting quickly can preserve the quality of life and, in many cases, lead to full recovery.
