"What is Sinonasal Malignant Lymphoma?"

Update Date: Source: Network

Malignant Lymphoma of the Nasal Sinuses

Malignant lymphoma of the nasal sinuses originates from the nasal cavity and sinuses, representing a rare malignancy that is infrequently encountered in clinical practice.

Etiology

1. Genetic Factors: Individuals with a family history are at a higher risk of developing this disease.

2. Abnormal Immune System Function: Conditions such as AIDS and long-term use of immunosuppressants post-organ transplantation predispose individuals to this disease.

3. Viral Infections: Infections with viruses like Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV) may be associated with the development of this malignancy.

4. Exposure to Chemical Carcinogens: Prolonged inhalation of harmful substances like asbestos, nickel, and chromium may lead to the development of malignant lymphoma of the nasal sinuses.

Symptoms

Early stages may be asymptomatic, but as the disease progresses, symptoms such as nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, and facial swelling may manifest. In severe cases, symptoms of increased intracranial pressure like vision loss and headache may occur.

Diagnostic Methods

1. Physical Examination: The physician will closely inspect the patient's nose for signs of congestion, rhinorrhea, or epistaxis, and perform palpation to assess for local masses or pain.

2. CT Scan: Provides a clear visualization of the extent of the lesion and its relationship with surrounding tissues, aiding in definitive diagnosis.

Treatment Modalities

For localized lesions, surgical resection is the most effective treatment. For advanced cases with extensive metastasis, a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy is necessary.

Precautions

Maintain good lifestyle habits by avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and adhering to a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables to boost immunity. If any of the aforementioned symptoms are observed, seek medical attention promptly.