Sinus cancer, also known as nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer, is a type of malignancy that originates in the air-filled spaces around the nose. This condition is considered rare, affecting only a small percentage of the population each year.
Understanding Sinus Cancer
Sinus cancer develops when abnormal cells begin to grow and divide uncontrollably within the tissues of the nasal cavity or the paranasal sinuses. The nasal cavity is the passage located directly behind the nose, while the paranasal sinuses are small, hollow spaces found in the bones surrounding the nose, including those in the cheekbones and forehead. Most commonly, this cancer arises from the flat cells that line these areas, known as squamous cells. These anatomical structures play roles in warming, moistening, and filtering the air we breathe, as well as influencing voice resonance.
Prevalence and Statistics
Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancers represent a small fraction of all head and neck malignancies. They account for approximately 3% to 5% of all head and neck cancers in the United States. Annually, around 2,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States. Most cases are identified in individuals over the age of 55, and these cancers are about twice as prevalent in men as in women.
Recognizing the Signs
Identifying sinus cancer can be challenging, as its early signs often resemble symptoms of more common, benign conditions like allergies or sinus infections. Persistent nasal congestion, particularly affecting only one side of the nose, is a common symptom that does not improve with typical remedies. Other potential indicators include nosebleeds, a decreased sense of smell, or mucus draining from the nose, which may sometimes be bloody. As the cancer progresses, symptoms might include pain or pressure around the eyes, forehead, or cheeks, facial numbness, or even changes in vision such as double vision or a bulging eye.
Factors Increasing Risk
Factors that increase the likelihood of developing sinus cancer include occupational exposures, particularly for those who breathe in certain substances. This includes wood dust, especially from hardwood, as well as leather dust, nickel, chromium, and formaldehyde. Smoking tobacco also elevates the risk, particularly for squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal cavity. Certain high-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), such as HPV 16, have also been detected in some cases, suggesting a possible link.
Seeking Medical Attention
Because early symptoms can mimic common ailments, seeking medical attention for persistent or worsening nasal and sinus issues is important. If symptoms like unilateral nasal blockage, recurring nosebleeds, or facial pain do not resolve within a few weeks, consulting a healthcare professional is advised. The diagnostic process typically involves a thorough physical examination, often including a nasal endoscopy where a thin, lighted tube is used to view the nasal passages. If a suspicious area is found, imaging tests like CT or MRI scans may be performed to assess the extent of any mass. Ultimately, a biopsy, which involves taking a tissue sample for microscopic examination, is necessary to confirm a diagnosis.