Nasal Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Nasal Tumors

Nasal cancer is a rare form of cancer in which a tumor develops in the nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses. This type of nasal cancer usually arises from cells in the nasal mucosa, which mutate into cancer cells and grow uncontrollably.

The disease is classified as a malignant tumor in the head and neck region. It can spread to adjacent tissue, bone, or blood vessels. In some cases, the tumor also grows through the nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses into surrounding structures of the nose and nasopharynx.

The most common types of nasal cancer include squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. These tumors often develop from the cells of the nasal mucosa. Depending on where the tumor originates and how far it has spread, various symptoms of nasal cancer may occur.

The exact causes of nasal cancer are not always clearly understood. However, several factors are known to significantly increase the risk of nasal cancer.

A major risk factor is tobacco smoking. Excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to the development of this cancer.

In addition, certain occupational exposures may play a role. Nasal cancer is more common in people who have worked with wood dust, leather dust, or certain chemicals for many years. This includes, for example, workers in the wood and leather industries.

Other possible factors include: genetic predisposition, chronic inflammation of the mucous membranes, and infection with the Epstein-Barr virus.

Studies show that men are twice as likely to develop nasal cancer. 

Cigarettes and alcohol are the most common causes of throat tumors @ LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS /AdobeStock

The symptoms of nasal cancer usually develop slowly. Since the tumor often grows over the course of years, early symptoms usually go unnoticed.

An initial symptom may be a persistently stuffy nose. Particularly noticeable is restricted nasal breathing on one side.

Other symptoms include: recurrent nosebleeds, a feeling of pressure in the nose or face, loss of the sense of smell, and facial pain.

As the tumor grows, it can cause additional symptoms. These include facial swelling, double vision, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.

These signs of nasal cancer occur when the tumor begins to affect the surrounding tissue or adjacent structures.

Since these symptoms can also occur with inflammatory conditions, the condition is often initially mistaken for a benign condition.

Diagnosis and treatment begin with a detailed discussion of symptoms and possible risk factors.

This is followed by an examination of the nose by an ENT specialist. An endoscopy of the nasal cavity is often performed during this examination.

Imaging techniques are used for a more detailed evaluation, particularly computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

These tests show how large the tumor is and whether adjacent structures are affected.

To definitively determine the type of tumor, a tissue sample is taken. This biopsy allows for the precise identification of the type of cancer. The stage of the cancer is then determined. Doctors distinguish between different stages, which indicate how far the tumor has already spread.

The treatment of nasal cancer depends on several factors. Key factors include the stage of the cancer and the specific type of cancer or tumor involved.

In many cases, the tumor is surgically removed. The goal is to remove as much of the malignant tissue as possible. If the tumor is detected early, it can often be treated surgically.

If removal is not possible because the disease is already too advanced, radiation therapy or chemotherapy is used. 

A combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy is often used. This can help kill any remaining cancer cells and prevent the tumor from growing again.

Which treatment options are appropriate in each individual case depends on various factors, such as the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health.

The course of the disease can vary greatly. The key factor is how early the cancer is detected. If the tumor is diagnosed early, the chances of recovery are often good.

In early stages, the tumor usually remains localized. However, if the disease is advanced, the tumor can spread to surrounding structures. In such cases, metastases may also develop, for example, in the lymph nodes.

The prognosis depends heavily on the size of the tumor, whether metastases have already formed, and how well the tumor responds to treatment. For people with nasal cancer, an early diagnosis greatly improves the chances of recovery.

Experts in nasal cancer typically come from the following specialties:

• ENT surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Radiation oncology
• Medical Oncology
• Radiology

The treatment of nasal cancer is usually carried out by an interdisciplinary team of specialists from various fields. These specialists often work together in specialized cancer centers to ensure the best possible diagnosis and treatment for patients.

How common is nasal cancer?

The overall incidence of nasal cancer is low. The disease accounts for less than 1% of all malignant tumors.

What early symptoms may indicate nasal cancer?

Possible early symptoms include a stuffy nose, recurrent nosebleeds, a feeling of pressure in the face, or loss of the sense of smell.

Can nasal cancer be cured?

Yes, if nasal cancer is detected early, the chances of a cure are often good. Early diagnosis and treatment are particularly crucial.

What treatments are available for nasal cancer?

The primary treatment is usually surgical removal of the tumor. Depending on the stage of the cancer, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may also be necessary.