Clinical, radiological and histopathological profile of sinonasal masses: An observational study at a tertiary care centre in Uttarakhand

Introduction: Sinonasal masses are commonly encountered in clinical practice of Otorhinolaryngology. These masses are sometimes difficult to be differentiated from each other due to their similar clinical presentation and their radiological features also create confusion. Histopathology plays a key role in differentiating these masses from each other. The aim of present study was to study the clinical presentation, radiological characteristics and histopathological findings of some commonly occurring sinonasal masses. Materials and methods: This observational cross sectional study comprising of 60 patients was done in Government Medical College, Haldwani and associated Dr Susheela Tiwari Government Hospital between the periods of January 2019 to September 2020.All patients (18 years and above) presenting with complaints suggestive of sinonasal masses were included in this study after taking due consent. These cases were subjected to thorough history taking and clinical examination, routine hematological and biochemical evaluation, nasal endoscopy, CT scan of nose and paranasal sinuses/ MRI(where required) and biopsy. Final diagnosis was made after histopathological examination. Observations and results: 60 cases were studied out of which 40(66.66%) cases were males and 20(33.33%) were females with a male to female ratio of 2:1. Maximum cases was recorded in the third decade of life with 17(28.33%) patients. Nasal obstruction was the most common complaint.( 54patients (90%) In 49 (81.66%) cases radiology indicated involvement of more than one region of the sinonasal tract. Histopathology proved (70%) of the total cases ie.42 to be non neoplastic and rest (18 (30%) neoplastic. Benign neoplastic masses were 14(23.33%) and malignant masses were 4(6.66%) of the total cases. Inflammatory nasal polyps were the most common non neoplastic lesions. In case of neoplastic variety, inverted papilloma and capillary hemangioma were the most common benign lesions. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common malignant lesion. Conclusion: Histopathological examination is mandatory for final diagnosis in patients with sinonasal masses. Combined clinical, radiological and histopathological evaluation is necessary to determine the true nature of the sinonasal mass and further management