Overview
Esthesioneuroblastoma, also known as olfactory neuroblastoma, is a rare type of cancer that originates in the upper part of the inside of the nose, specifically in the nasal cavity. It typically affects adults in their 50s and 60s but can occur at any age. The cancer begins as a tumor of cells and may grow into the sinuses, eyes, and brain, as well as spread to other parts of the body. Common symptoms include a loss of the sense of smell, frequent nosebleeds, and difficulty breathing through the nose. Treatment usually involves surgery, often accompanied by radiation and chemotherapy. The exact cause of esthesioneuroblastoma is not known, but it is believed to result from changes in a cell's DNA that instruct it to grow and divide uncontrollably.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of esthesioneuroblastoma include:
- Loss of the sense of smell
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Difficulty breathing through the nose As the cancer grows, it might cause eye pain, loss of vision, ear pain, and headaches.
Development
Esthesioneuroblastoma, also known as olfactory neuroblastoma, is a rare type of cancer that starts in the upper part of the inside of the nose, specifically in the nasal cavity. The cancer begins as a growth of cells called a tumor, which can grow and invade nearby areas such as the sinuses, eyes, and brain. Esthesioneuroblastoma can also spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, bone marrow, lungs, liver, skin, and bones. The exact cause of esthesioneuroblastoma is not known, as it occurs due to changes in the DNA of cells. These changes tell the cells to grow and multiply rapidly, forming tumors that can invade healthy tissue and potentially spread to other parts of the body.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you have persistent symptoms such as a loss of smell and frequent nosebleeds, which may indicate esthesioneuroblastoma. Make an appointment with your healthcare team if you have any lasting symptoms that concern you.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing esthesioneuroblastoma may involve a physical exam, endoscopic exam, imaging tests, and a biopsy. The cancer can be difficult to diagnose because it is rare and may resemble other cancers that occur in the head, neck, or nose. Imaging tests such as MRI, CT, and PET scans may be used to determine the size and location of the cancer, and a biopsy may be performed to remove a tissue sample for testing in a lab. A team of experts with different specialties, including surgeons, head and neck surgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, may be involved in the diagnosis and treatment of esthesioneuroblastoma.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of esthesioneuroblastoma may include the cancer growing into nearby organs and tissues, such as the sinuses, eyes, and brain. It can also spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, bone marrow, lungs, liver, skin, and bones, known as metastasis. Other potential complications include loss of vision, eye pain, ear pain, headaches, and difficulty breathing through the nose due to tumor growth.
Treatment
Treatment for esthesioneuroblastoma typically involves surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The goal of treatment is to remove the cancer from the affected area. A team of experts with different specialties usually handles the treatment plan, including neurosurgeons and head and neck surgeons. Surgery is the primary method to remove the tumor, and radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. As for managing side effects, alternative therapies like acupuncture, aromatherapy, hypnosis, massage, music therapy, relaxation techniques, tai chi, and yoga might be helpful. It is essential to consult with your healthcare team to understand the best treatment options for your specific case.