Is nasal and paranasal sinus cancer a common disease?

Nasal and paranasal sinus cancer is a rare disease and is not common among the general population. Medical data indicate that this type of cancer represents a small percentage compared to other, more prevalent types of cancer, such as bowel cancer [4]. This disease arises from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the tissues lining the nasal cavity (the space behind the nose) or in the paranasal sinuses, which are small air-filled cavities located within the bones of the face and skull [4]. Given its rarity, it may not be immediately suspected when initial symptoms appear, highlighting the importance of thorough examination if any unexplained health complaints persist.

How common is this type of cancer?

Although anyone can develop it, sinus and nasal cavity cancer remains statistically uncommon. The disease develops in various cell types, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most common, starting in the flat cells that line the nose and sinuses [1]. There are also rare types, such as esthesioneuroblastoma, which originates in the nerve tissues responsible for the sense of smell and accounts for only about 5% of total tumors in this area [3]. Several factors, such as age and gender (as it tends to occur more in men over the age of forty) and lifestyle, play a role in determining the likelihood of developing it [1].

Environmental and Occupational Risk Factors

While there is no single, direct cause for the disease, research has identified several risk factors that increase the likelihood of these tumors developing. Prolonged occupational exposure to certain chemicals or dust in the workplace is one of the most prominent factors. Examples of professions linked to increased risks include working in furniture manufacturing, carpentry, milling and bakery work, shoe manufacturing, and metal plating [1]. Smoking and exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV) are additional factors that may contribute to increased risk in some individuals [1].

Symptoms Requiring Medical Consultation

In the early stages, the disease may not show any clear signs, and symptoms often resemble simple health conditions like colds or sinus infections. As the tumor grows, warning signs may appear that require immediate medical evaluation, including: chronic nasal congestion that does not go away, frequent nosebleeds, a feeling of pressure or pain in the sinus or ear area, the appearance of a lump or ulcer inside the nose that does not heal, or facial swelling and double vision [1].

Diagnosis and Next Steps

Diagnosis depends on a comprehensive medical examination that includes looking inside the nose and neck, and using precise imaging techniques such as CT scans or MRI to assess the size and location of the tumor [1]. A biopsy is the definitive procedure for determining the nature of the cells and the type of cancer. For more details on the methods used to address this disease, we invite you to read our article on Nasal and Paranasal Sinus Cancer: Early Detection and Advanced Treatments (Arabic). It is essential to consult a specialist physician when observing any persistent symptoms, as early diagnosis enhances the chances of dealing effectively with the condition.

Medical references

• Paranasal Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version
• Esthesioneuroblastoma
• Nasal and paranasal sinus cancer | Cancer Research UK