Nasal polyp

From Free net encyclopedia

Nasal polyps are polypoidal masses arising mainly from the mucous membranes of the nose and paranasal sinuses. Nasal polyps are usually classified into antrochoanal polyps and ethmoidal polyps. Antrochoanal polyps arise from the maxillary sinuses and are much less common, ethmoidal polyps arise from the ethmoidal sinuses. Antrochoanal polyps are usually single and unilateral whereas ethmoidal polyps are multiple and bilateral. Symptoms of polyps include nasal block, sinusitis, anosmia or loss of smell, and secondary infection leading to headache.

Nasal polyps are most commonly cause by allergy and rarely by cystic fibrosis although a significant number are associated with non-allergic adult asthma or no respiratory or allergic trigger that can be demonstrated.

Nasal polyps have no relationship with colonic or uterine polyps. Irregular unilateral polyps particulary associated with pain or bleeding will require urgent investigation as they may represent an intranasal tumour.Template:Disease-stub