Nasopharyngeal fibroma: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
Nasopharyngeal fibroma is the most common tumor that can occur in the nasopharynx. Although histologically it is a benign tumor, the unrestrained growth of the fibroma with destruction of surrounding tissue, the tendency to recur after removal, and frequent bleeding may lead to the clinical interpretation of this tumor as malignant.
Nasopharyngeal fibroma most often occurs on the roof of the nasopharynx and on the posterior wall of the pharynx. The direction of its growth can be in the cavity of the pharynx, nose and paranasal sinuses, in the orbit, in the zygomatic region, or, less commonly, in the cranial cavity. The tumor usually occurs in boys between the ages of 10 and 13 years. After 24-25 years, tumor growth stops and it can undergo reverse development.
One of the main symptoms of nasopharyngeal fibroma is unilateral nasal congestion, which can then progress and lead to complete nasal breath holding on both sides after 5-6 months. As a result, a closed nasal tone may occur. Severe anemia may also occur due to repeated nosebleeds, which are characteristic of this disease. With a widespread tumor, depending on the direction of its growth, exophthalmos, protrusion of the soft and hard palate, deformation of the external nose and other signs may occur.
The growth of fibroids into the cranial cavity can be dangerous and threaten the patient’s life. Therefore, it is important to carry out timely diagnosis and treatment.
To diagnose nasopharyngeal fibroma, anterior and posterior rhinoscopy, as well as palpation of the nasopharynx, are used. The extent of the process is determined by X-ray methods, including tomography. It is important to carry out a differential diagnosis with adenoids and malignant tumors, in contrast to which there are no metastases or ulcerations in nasopharyngeal fibroids.
Treatment of nasopharyngeal fibroma is most often surgical. But when choosing a treatment method, many factors must be taken into account, including the size and location of the tumor, the patient's age, the presence of concomitant diseases and other factors. After surgery, radiation therapy may be required to prevent recurrence.
In conclusion, nasopharyngeal fibroma is a serious disease that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. It can lead to destruction of surrounding tissues and bleeding, and in some cases, even life-threatening. If symptoms such as nasal congestion, nasal holding of breath, nasal sounds and repeated nosebleeds appear, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and determine a treatment method. In most cases, surgical removal of the tumor is the most effective treatment method, but it is important to take into account the individual characteristics of each patient and carry out comprehensive treatment, including postoperative monitoring and rehabilitation.