Cancer of the sinuses: Initial signs, symptoms, and prognosis
Sinus cancer is a rare form of cancer that affects the sinuses, the air-filled spaces in the skull. This type of cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages, as symptoms may be minimal or absent [1].
In the early stages, sinus cancer may present with subtle symptoms such as nasal obstruction, nosebleeds (epistaxis), or ear symptoms due to Eustachian tube blockage. However, these symptoms are frequently overlooked [1]. As the tumor grows and invades adjacent structures, more noticeable and serious symptoms become apparent.
At advanced stages, symptoms such as neck lymph nodes, cranial nerve issues, facial pain, and eye problems may be observed [1]. In nasopharyngeal carcinoma—a type of sinus cancer—the clinical presentation is often late, with many patients showing symptoms only when the cancer has spread or caused significant local destruction [1].
The most common symptoms of sinus cancer include a blocked nose that does not resolve, nosebleeds, decreased sense of smell, mucus from the nose that might be bloody, postnasal drip, pus draining from the nose, complete or partial loss of sight, bulging of one eye, double vision, pain located above or below the eye, constant watery eyes, swelling of the conjunctiva, headaches, loose teeth, pain or pressure that affects one of the ears, difficulty opening the mouth, a lump or growth that can develop anywhere on the face, pain or numbness in the face that does not go away, swollen lymph nodes on the neck, and hearing loss [1].
Diagnosing sinus cancer typically involves a series of tests. A biopsy may be ordered to test for cancer, and this can be done through various methods such as fine needle aspiration, endoscopic biopsy, incisional, or excisional biopsies. Imaging tests like CT scans, X-rays of the face, MRI scans, bone scans, and PET scans may also be ordered [2].
Additional testing may be ordered to assess the tumor's impact on a person, including speech tests, blood tests, heart tests, hearing tests, and dental exams. An otolaryngologist, a specialist in conditions affecting the ear, nose, and throat, may be referred for further examination if sinus cancer is suspected [2].
The 5-year relative survival rates for sinus cancer are 85% for localized, 52% for regional, 42% for distant, and 58% for all stages combined [3].
Remember, if symptoms worsen or do not resolve, even if they are similar to benign conditions, it is always recommended to speak with a doctor [4].
References:
[1] Cancer Research UK. (2021). Sinus cancer. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/sinus-cancer
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Sinus cancer. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sinus-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352539
[3] American Cancer Society. (2021). Key statistics for sinus and nasal cavity cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/sinus-and-nasal-cavity-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
[4] American Cancer Society. (2021). When to see a doctor. https://www.cancer.org/latest-news/when-to-see-a-doctor.html
- Other nasal disorders, such as nosebleeds (epistaxis) and sinusitis, may not be indicative of sinus cancer alone, but could be early signs and warrant medical attention.
- Science has made significant advancements in diagnosing sinus cancer through various tests, including biopsies and imaging scans, which can help detect other medical conditions like cancer as well as various health-and-wellness issues related to the ear, nose, and throat.
- Treatment options for sinus cancer can vary, depending on the stage of cancer, and may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. However, early detection and intervention can improve the chances of cancer remission and the management of other sinus-related disorders like nosebleeds.
