A review of nasal polyposis

Review

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Authors: Jonathan Ray Newton, Kim Wong Ah-See

Published Date April 2008 Volume 2008:4(2) Pages 507 - 512

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/TCRM.S2379

Jonathan Ray Newton, Kim Wong Ah-See

Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK

Abstract: Nasal polyps are common, affecting up to four percent of the population. Their etiology remains unclear, but they are known to have associations with allergy, asthma, infection, cystic fibrosis, and aspirin sensitivity. They present with nasal obstruction, anosmia, rhinorrhoea, post nasal drip, and less commonly facial pain. Clinical examination reveals single or multiple grey polypoid masses in the nasal cavity. Computerized tomography allows evaluation of the extent of the disease and is essential if surgical treatment is to be considered. Management of polyposis involves a combination of medical therapy and surgery. There is good evidence for the use of corticosteroids (systemic and topical) both as primary treatment and as postoperative prophylaxis against recurrence. Surgical treatment has been refined significantly over the past twenty years with the advent of endoscopic sinus surgery and, in general, is reserved for cases refractory to medical treatment. Recurrence of the polyposis is common with severe disease recurring in up to ten percent of patients.

Keywords: nasal polyps, disease management, surgical procedures