Paranasal Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer

Overview

Paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancers are types of head and neck cancers. Nasal cavity cancers start in the opening behind the nose, while paranasal sinus cancers start in the air-filled spaces in the skull around or near the nose. The nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses filter and moisten the air you breathe, add sound quality to your voice, lighten the weight of your skull, and provide a framework for your face and eyes. This area is lined with a layer of mucus-producing tissue, called the mucosa. Paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancers commonly originate from the cells of the mucosa but can also be formed in bone or cartilage cells.

The majority of paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancers are found in people who are 55 years old or older. In the US, men are twice as likely to develop these cancers than women.

Treatment

Cancer can form from any of the several types of cells in the sinuses and nasal cavity, and each cancer is different. Your physician will tailor your treatment to your specific cancer. Surgery to remove the cancer is often used with other treatments, like radiation therapy or chemotherapy.