Abstract:
Malignant tumors of the sinonasal tract account for approximately 3% of all head and neck malignancies. These tumors typically carry a poor prognosis. Diagnosis can be particularly challenging due to the small size of biopsy samples, crush artifact, and overlapping histologic and clinical features. A broad general approach that includes detailed clinical and radiological review, correlation of the histological features with immunohistochemical findings and the appropriate use of molecular studies help reach a correct diagnosis.
While squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) represents the majority of sinonasal malignancies, a growing number of recently characterized entities also demonstrate squamous differentiation but are not true SCCs. Examples such as NUT carcinoma, teratocarcinosarcoma, and SWI-SNF complex deficient carcinomas among others warrant accurate diagnosis. Accurate recognition of these distinct tumor types is crucial, as their clinical behavior, treatment strategies, and prognoses may differ significantly from conventional SCC.
