Inverted papilloma symptoms & treatment

Inverted papillomas are noncancerous tumors that form in the posterior aspect of the nasal cavities. As they grow, they can sometimes extend into the paranasal sinuses or orbits. Occasionally, inverted papillomas can undergo a malignant transformation into an aggressive form of cancer called squamous cell carcinoma.

Symptoms of inverted papillomas

Inverted papilloma symptoms may include:

• Blocked nasal passages, usually just on one side
• Runny nose/nasal discharge
• Sinus infections
• Nosebleeds

Diagnosis of inverted papillomas

Your doctor can diagnose an inverted papilloma by inserting a flexible tube called an endoscope into your nose. They will then take a sample of the tumor to confirm the diagnosis and determine whether it’s cancerous. You may also have a CT or MRI scan to determine the extent of the tumor.

Treatment options for inverted papillomas

Inverted papillomas are resected by an otolaryngologist through a minimally invasive approach called Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS). More advanced tumors can require a combined approach between neurosurgery and otolaryngology called the Expanded Endonasal Approach (EEA). In both approaches, there are no skin incisions and the recovery is more rapid than with open approaches.