Inverting Papilloma

Inverting Papilloma – About

Inverting Papilloma (also known as Inverted Papilloma), is a type of papilloma that is officially classified as a benign (harmless) tumor. But, it often tends to act more like a cancer than a tumor. It has a tendency to reappear and can expand into surrounding tissues. The treatment of inverting papilloma usually includes the same type of surgery that is used for treating cancer.

Papillomas are wart-like growths that can arise inside the nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses and destroy healthy tissue. They usually have a bumpy surface. Papillomas are not cancer, but in approximately 5% of patients a squamous cell cancer will start in a papilloma (squamous cell cancer is a common form of skin cancer of the middle and outer layer of the skin). Because of the risk of cancer, papillomas in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses are removed by surgery.

Inverting Papilloma – Diagnosis

Most inverted papillomas can be discovered during a physical examination of the nasal cavity. Examination with an endoscope is necessary and a little piece of tissue will be detached for biopsy. Usually, a Medical imaging service like a CT scan or an MRI scan will be recommended. Symptoms of inverted papillomas may include: Runny nose, nasal obstruction, sinus infections, headaches, facial pain, and nosebleeds).

Inverting Papilloma – Treatment

Minimally invasive surgery and removal

Inverted papillomas of the sinuses, nasal cavity, and skull base may be approached directly using the Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEA). This state-of-the-art, minimally invasive approach allows surgeons to access the tumor through the natural corridor of the nose, without making an open incision. Surgeons then remove the inverted papilloma through the nose and nasal cavities. EEA offers the benefits of no incisions to heal, no disfigurement, and a faster recovery time. Endoscopic approaches such as EEA have good success rates in preventing recurrence and better cosmetic outcomes than traditional open surgical approaches.

Surgery

Surgery is the primary treatment for inverted papillomas. Because of the high recurrence rate early, aggressive surgery to remove the papilloma usually is recommended.