Nasal and sinus cavity tumors are rare but are of special concern due to their close location to the eyes and brain. The most common tumors are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Early symptoms are often non-specific and may be confused with allergies or a sinus infection. As tumors grow, they may cause nasal blockage or bleeding. Larger tumors can cause severe headaches or blurry vision. Common symptoms may include:

• Blocked nasal passageway(s) that does not clear
• Frequent headaches or pain affecting the sinus region
• Pus draining from the nose
• Decreased or loss of sense of smell
• Numbness in cheek or other parts of the face
• Loosening, pain or numbness of the teeth
• Blurry or double vision or swelling of the eyes
• Problems with dentures
• Growth on the face, nose or palate

Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer Stages
Sinus cancers are categorized into Stages I, II, III and IV. In general, as the tumor grows and involves more areas of the sinuses, the stage is considered more advanced. Your physician can explain the detailed signs of each stage.

Treatment Options
UT Southwestern has an multidisciplinary skull base tumor board that works closely together to optimize the care of these difficult tumors.

• Surgery – Traditionally, nasal and sinus cavity tumors had to be removed through
  an incision on the face and the removal of the forehead bone flap (craniotomy).
  However, the development of minimally-invasive endoscopic resection makes it
  possible to remove the tumor directly through the nose. Endoscopic surgery decreases complications and recovery is faster. Tumors with extensive brain involvement may
  still require a craniotomy.
  
• Radiation therapy – This treatment uses high-dose x-rays or other high-energy rays to
  kill cancer cells. Typically, radiation is used after surgery to minimize the risk of cancer recurrence.
  
• Chemotherapy – This treatment is used in selected cases of aggressive sinus cancers
  before or after surgery. In selected cases, it may also be used to treat recurrent cancer.

Recovery
A patient’s recovery depends on the location and type of the cancer, the stage of the cancer, and the patient’s general state of health. The five-year survival rates range from 80-90 percent for small cancers that have not spread to 10-20 percent for advanced cancers.

For more detailed, technical information on this issue, please read our Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer patient information sheet.