Are nasal polyps likely to be malignant?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on November 19, 2024
00:00
00:00

Nasal polyps generally have a low chance of being malignant, as they are typically considered benign lesions and are a relatively common condition in otolaryngology. The main consideration is the specific number of polyps; if there are fewer polyps and they are localized, and the clinical symptoms are not particularly severe, this situation generally can be managed with medication treatment and regular follow-up. However, if the nasal polyps are extensive and accompanied by clinical symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, headaches, and dizziness, surgery is generally considered. After the surgery, a pathological biopsy will be necessary to accurately determine whether the polyps are benign or malignant based on the biopsy results.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
1min 15sec home-news-image

How to check for nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are benign space-occupying lesions that occur in the nasal cavity and sinus cavities. There are several aspects to the examination of nasal polyps: Firstly, an anterior rhinoscopy examination can be performed. If the nasal polyps are large, or even protruding outside the nasal cavity, they can be directly seen. Anterior rhinoscopy enlarges the nasal cavity, allowing visualization of the middle nasal meatus and other tissues inside the nasal cavity. Secondly, a nasal endoscopy can be utilized. Nasal endoscopy is particularly effective for viewing polyps located deeper within, or at the back of the nasal passages, providing very clear visibility. Other examinations, such as electronic rhinoendoscopy, follow the same procedure. The third examination involves a sinus CT scan, which is helpful for identifying the origin of the nasal polyps, as well as the location, range, and extent of obstruction caused by the polyps. Another examination is the pathological examination after nasal polyp surgery, which aids in determining the origin and risk associated with the nasal polyps, as well as assisting in subsequent treatments.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
44sec home-news-image

Can nasal polyps be eliminated?

Nasal polyps are benign neoplasms in the nasal cavity. They are translucent, lychee-shaped neoplasms without nervous or vascular innervation. Nasal polyps can be completely removed, primarily through two methods. One method is the chemical removal with medications, mainly using corticosteroids, which is suitable for early-stage nasal polyps. Another method is via functional endoscopic sinus surgery, which involves the removal of nasal polyps. The surgery is performed under endoscopic guidance, using forceps or a snare device to excise the nasal polyps. This surgery is conducted under general anesthesia, and nasal polyps can be removed.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
47sec home-news-image

Can nasal polyps be treated with medication?

Nasal polyps can be considered for drug treatment, primarily depending on the severity of the nasal polyps. If the condition of the nasal polyps is not particularly severe, most patients can consider conservative drug treatment. Common treatments include nasal spray medications, and the nasal cavity can also be rinsed with saline. If the patient also has rhinitis or sinusitis, oral medication may need to be considered. However, during the treatment process, regular follow-up examinations are necessary to observe the treatment effects. If the effects of medication are not satisfactory and the condition of the nasal polyps is more severe, surgical removal may need to be considered. After surgery, regular follow-up examinations are still necessary to monitor the effects of the surgery.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
43sec home-news-image

The difference between nasal polyps and adenoids

There are fundamental differences between nasal polyps and adenoids. Nasal polyps are polypoid tissue proliferations located in the nasal cavity and sinus cavities, resembling a peeled lychee. In contrast, adenoids are located in the nasopharynx and are a normal anatomical structure of the human body, whereas nasal polyps are a new benign tumor-like growth. Furthermore, nasal polyps require surgical removal, primarily through functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Adenoids generally do not require surgical treatment unless they are enlarged, causing issues such as snoring and sleep apnea, in which case surgery might be considered.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
45sec home-news-image

Are nasal polyps likely to be malignant?

Nasal polyps generally have a low chance of being malignant, as they are typically considered benign lesions and are a relatively common condition in otolaryngology. The main consideration is the specific number of polyps; if there are fewer polyps and they are localized, and the clinical symptoms are not particularly severe, this situation generally can be managed with medication treatment and regular follow-up. However, if the nasal polyps are extensive and accompanied by clinical symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, headaches, and dizziness, surgery is generally considered. After the surgery, a pathological biopsy will be necessary to accurately determine whether the polyps are benign or malignant based on the biopsy results.