Medical expert of the article
New publications
Types and complications of polyps in the sinuses of the nose
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Today one of the main otolaryngological diseases is polyposis, in which polyps are formed in the nose. Sometimes people turn to the doctor with complaints about stuffy nose, nasal voice and night snoring. The doctor conducts an examination, as a result of which polyps are diagnosed. But quite often a person does not even suspect about the presence of polyps, and they are discovered quite by accident when examined.
In both cases, treatment is required, and the sooner it is started, the greater the chances of recovery. If you do not take any measures, refuse treatment, you can only exacerbate the situation, having received numerous complications. The most dangerous thing for polyps is that they can become inflamed, clog the nasal passages. This can cause lack of oxygen, nocturnal sleep apnea (stopping breathing). Significantly disrupted local, and then the general immunity, the defenses of the body are reduced. This leads to an even larger proliferation of polyposis tissue, further hyperplasia.
The reasons can be set and all of them must be taken into account when developing the strategy and tactics of treatment. This suggests that qualified medical care is needed, self-medication should not be counted. The pathogenesis may be based on the inflammatory process, allergic reaction, infection, a decrease in the protective abilities of the immune system, a violation of microflora. Also, often the occurrence of polyps contribute to other related pathologies. For example, frequent colds, sinusitis, rhinitis, in which the mucous membrane is exposed to inflammation and further hypertrophy, can cause increased growth of polyps.
Many of these causes are interrelated, support each other's existence. Accordingly, the treatment will also proceed from the cause of the pathology: antiallergic, antiviral, immunocorrecting, anti-inflammatory therapy. First try conservative therapy. If it proves ineffective, surgical intervention will be required.
Large polyp in the nose
A large polyp in the nose necessarily requires an attentive attitude. It is important to carry out the necessary diagnostics, to reveal the reasons for its development. Often such a polyp develops as a result of an oncological process, in which cells undergo malignant transformation. As a result, the polyp becomes a cancerous tumor. Also, large polyps can develop with a strong inflammatory process, a violation of the hormonal background.
White polyp in the nose
White polyp is in most cases formed of fibrous tissue. It can be of various sizes: from small to large. The main complaint of patients with this pathology is frequent nasal bleeding, nasal congestion, constant disruption of nasal breathing, in which drops and other symptomatic drugs are ineffective.
The doctor conducts the examination and often in the indicated place a tumor is detected. In appearance, we can assume the type and nature of the tumor, as well as the stage of its development. Sometimes palpation causes bleeding.
Often it is necessary to resort to lubrication with a solution of adrenaline for a more detailed study. It does not lead to a decrease in the size of the polyp, but it helps to eliminate edema. This makes it possible to examine the tumor in more detail.
Polyp of the paranasal sinuses
Polyps are such structural organizations, in which the main pathological process is often localized not in the nasal passage, but in the paranasal sinuses. At the same time, various symptoms develop. Sometimes the polyp of the sinuses can grow so much that it comes out of the sinuses and fills a part of the new stroke, or completely.
Hoan polyp in the nose
Hoanal are somewhat different from ordinary polyps in size, morphological features of the mechanisms of their development. Therefore, they are often considered as separate forms of polyps, or even an independent disease. This pathology is quite rare and accounts for approximately 5% of the number of all polyposis formations of the nose. Can be located in the nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses. Treatment and diagnosis is determined by the location of the polyp, its size, structure.
They can be divided into 3 groups: anthrochoanal, sphenohaanal and ethmoidoanal. The first two types develop mainly from cells of the latticed labyrinth, frontal sinus, nasal septum and nasal concha. This type of pathology is extremely rare.
Anthrochoanal polyp in the nose
In total in the medical literature there are only three cases of development of polyps from nasal concha. At the same time, 2 of them developed from the inferior nasal shell, and in one case from the middle nasal concha.
From the described case it follows that a person with an anthrochoanal polyp has complaints about the absence of nasal breathing, abundant discharge of mucus from the nasal cavity, an unpleasant odor from the nasopharynx and pharynx. In a dream, a strong snoring is recorded. The patient was a girl at the age of 12 years.
As a treatment, surgical removal of the polyp was done using the Lange hook. After this material was subjected to bacteriological and histological examination. As a result, the prevalence of fibrous tissue and severe edema against a background of a natural conditionally pathogenic microflora was established.
About a month after the operation, the disease recurred. A repeated operation was performed in a similar manner. After 2 months, shortness of breath was observed. After 3 months after the operation, the nasal breathing disappeared completely. When examined, obturation of the nasopharynx was established against a background of dirty yellow plaque, sufficiently dense in size. Because of obturation, the nasopharynx could not be fully examined.
A smear was taken for bacteriological examination. The results showed the presence of a fungal infection, the diagnosis - aspergillosis, which is explained by a sharp decrease in local and general immunity after two operations and local microbiocenosis disturbed. The presence of curvature of the nasal septum was also established.
During the rhinoscopy, a polypous formation of gray color was established, which filled the middle and posterior sections of the nasal passage. The polyp is snug against the nasal shells and completely covers the choana. All the posterior parts of the nose are filled with a small process of polyp, which penetrated through the right hawan.
In addition, an otoscopy was performed, which showed that the eardrums were strongly retracted and limited. An audiometry was appointed, according to which the acute catarrhal bilateral tubo-otitis was diagnosed. Hearing loss by conductive type is noted.
In the course of a computer tomogram, a shadow was revealed from the formation formed by a soft tissue, which was defined as a polyp. It fills the common nasal passage, nasopharynx, pharynx. Signs of a secondary inflammatory process, its distribution into the maxillary sinus, as well as cells of the latticed labyrinth and sphenoid bone are recorded. A general analysis of urine and blood, however, did not demonstrate any significant changes.
Despite the rather extensive results of tomography, a complete rhinological study, it was not possible to completely isolate the localization of the polyp stem. This was due to the presence of obturation and a strong hyperplastic process.
Clipping and partial removal of the nasal polyp (under local anesthesia) was performed, which made it possible to fully examine the nasopharynx and pharynx. It was found that with the help of a thin knife, the nasopharyngeal component of the polyp is attached to the lower edge of the nasal shell. Then the polyp was cut off at the level of a large latticed vesicle, which made it possible to see the lower edge of the polyp. Attempts to completely remove the polyp after its leg was removed were unsuccessful, since the polyp strongly merged with the anatomical structures of the nose.
Thus, an analysis of the available practice allows us to conclude that today there are no treatments for anthropoanal polyps. Even surgical methods are powerless.
Polyp in the maxillary sinus of the nose
Polyps are often localized in the maxillary, or maxillary sinus. This is one of the largest sinuses of the nose. Located in the cavity of the upper jaw and contributes to the emergence of the main symptoms that cause a person to see a doctor. There is an increase and inflammation of the mucous membrane, there is swelling, hyperemia and nasal congestion.
But the main problem of polyps of the maxillary sinuses is their ability to completely block respiration, as a result of which a person can suffocate. Particularly pronounced shortage of air at night. Snoring, changes in voice, inflammation of the mucous membranes not only of the nose, but also of the entire nasopharynx, pharynx. This can lead to the accumulation of infection. The nasopharynx is connected by means of various channels and tubes to the middle and inner ear, the eye. The spread of infection through channels can lead to inflammation of the corresponding parts of the body.
The cause of the appearance of polyps in the bosom can be an allergy of the mucosal hyperplasia. The main method of treatment is surgical removal. Conservative methods are not capable of having the desired effect. Here there are certain difficulties. To remove a polyp is not so easy because of its uncomfortable location. He is in the bosom, so it is not easy to get to him. Medication treatment is especially not able to eliminate pathology. Removal of polyps of this type requires a specialist with relevant experience and qualifications. In addition, you need special high-tech equipment.
Modern methods of treating polyps are treatment with laser therapy. There is a more rapid evaporation of the polyp from the cavity, after which the mucous is smoothed and subjected to regeneration. The method is low-traumatic, practically does not cause complications. The operation is painless, recovery also takes place in a short period.
Also suitable is the endoscopic method, by which significant outgrowth is removed. Simultaneously, the sinuses of the nose and the nasal passages are cleared, which makes it possible to detect the polyp in time when it occurs and to remove it. The point is that the endoscope of a sufficiently fine structure penetrates into the nasal cavity and removes the polyp.
Due to its thin and mobile structure, the endoscope can penetrate any hard-to-reach part of the body, including the sinuses. The only drawback of the method is that after such manipulation, restoration under supervision of specialists is required, so hospitalization is required. Special therapy is also needed to restore the mucosa and prevent recurrence of the disease.
Polyp in the sphenoid sinus of the nose
Often polyps are formed in the sphenoid sinus. Most often this pathology affects young people. Polyposis can be completely asymptomatic and is most often diagnosed accidentally when performing computer or magnetic resonance imaging. It can also be detected during an X-ray study. There is hyperplasia of the nasal mucosa, resulting in a small cavity. It is filled with liquid. Most often it is a different exudate. It can be pus, mucus, spotting, water and even air.
The danger is the possibility of infection. In addition, the proximity to the brain causes the probability of infection in the brain, inflammation of the meninges. Pain can give to the back of the head. In the absence of treatment, vision may decrease, or pain develop in the eyes. Often the pain pushes back to the nape, there is a feeling of bursting, pressure in one or more sinuses. Later, dizziness, photophobia, and darkening in the eyes join. It can be accompanied by dyspeptic phenomena, such as nausea, vomiting. Often pains are confused with neurological pains, strong irradiation is observed.
If palpation can cause pain. According to the consistency of polyps are similar to soft plasticine. Only surgical methods are suitable for treatment, since it is impossible to penetrate any of the others into the sinus cavity. Often occur against the background of other concomitant diseases.
Fibrous polyp of the nose
It is a polyp, the basis of which is fibrous tissue. It has the ability to grow, sometimes it is in close relationship with the vessels. It is for this reason that the polyp can bleed. A histological examination is necessary to make sure that the polyp is benign and the risk of malignant degeneration is minimized.
Allergic nasal polyps
It develops mainly in the nose or nasal passages. The main cause is an allergic reaction, which occurs against a background of increased sensitization and allergization of the body. As an allergen, any allergen may act, to which the organism has developed an increased sensitivity.
Promotes the release of a large amount of histamine, and other components that trigger the mechanism of an allergic reaction. As a result, a strong puffiness and hyperemia of the mucous membrane develops. With a prolonged allergy, the mucosa becomes inflamed, becomes hypertrophic, and as a result, the already existing polyp can develop or increase in size.
Malignant polyps of the nose
Polyps of the nose can be both malignant and benign. An experienced physician can determine this even during routine rhinoscopy. The appearance of these two tumors is very different. Thus, a benign tumor has a dense structure, clearly defined edges. A cancerous tumor can have the appearance of an unorganized mass, or a tumor with uneven edges. Its structure is loose.
Despite the rather pronounced external signs, only an inspection will not be enough. For the reliability of the data, it is necessary to take a piece of tumor tissue for research.
Purulent polyps in the nose
Polyps of purulent consistency can occur in the presence of bacterial infection. Less often it can be a fungal infection. Such a structure requires urgent treatment, since the pus is a rather dangerous nasal cavity that can ascend along the ascending paths to the brain, ear, and other parts of the body. Accordingly, in these areas there is an inflammatory and infectious process.
Angiomatous polyp of the nasal cavity
It is mainly a polyp contained in the nasal cavity. Very rarely it can be found in the nasal sinuses. At a histological examination, it can be revealed that it includes the main tissue (most often fibrous). It is completely penetrated by blood vessels. Such polyps often bleed. They are best treated with surgical methods.
Relapse of nasal polyps
The polyp can recur after its removal, that is, reappear. This is due to the high regenerative activity of the cells that form the nasal mucosa. In addition, the polyp can develop again with incomplete removal of cells. If even a few cells of the polyp remain, then it will recover again.
You can completely remove the polyp by using modern high-tech equipment, for example, laser technologies. But such an opportunity is not available in all clinics. Often, for the prevention of relapse, a special treatment is prescribed, preventing their re-development.
Polyp in the nose bleeds
Bleeding polyp is an angiofibromatous tumor, in which fibrous tissue proliferation and the formation of an independent circulatory system in it. It is located on one side of the septum of the nose. The main place of localization is the venous-arterial plexus.
It is established that in most cases polyps bleed in women. The exact cause of this pathological phenomenon has not been clarified until now. Many experts are inclined to believe that hormonal disorders can be the cause. Also often occur as a result of various injuries, damage to the integrity of the mucous membrane. Quite often, as reasons, reinforced hyperplasia with damage to the blood vessels, development of the oncological process is considered.
When a microscopic examination can be found fibrous part and vessels. The degree of bleeding and consistency, size, density, and other properties of the tumor are determined by the composition, or more precisely - by the ratio of fibrous tissue and vessels. Quite often, the tumor contains various inflamed components, which causes bleeding.
This type of tumor requires immediate treatment, because it is dangerous for its complications, in particular, anemia. This is due to frequent and severe bleeding, which leads to a change in the composition and function of the blood. No less dangerous complication is the malignancy of the tumor, in which there is a risk of malignant degeneration of the tumor. In order to confirm or refute the oncological process, resort to holding. Histological examination. Differential diagnosis is important, during which the polyp is differentiated with lupus, tuberculosis, scleroma and cancer.
Diagnostics may require X-ray examination, endoscopy of the nasal cavity, examination of the paranasal sinuses. Various assays may be required, for example, analysis of mucus from the nose, blood tests, virological and immunological studies. Functional tests, such as respiratory function testing, may be required.
They treat it only in one way - radically. Extirpation of the tumor along with the underlying perichondrium and cartilage is performed. If the tumor is located on the nasal concha, it is removed along with the part of the underlying shell.
Ineffective is the method of removing the bleeding polyp with a loop followed by diathermocoagulation, since numerous relapses occur.
Blood from the nose with polyps
With polyps, blood from the nose can go quite often. Especially violently bleed angiofibroznye polyps, which include fibrous and vascular tissue. The degree of bleeding depends on how many vessels contain polyp inside.
Polyps can be detected during a rhinoscopy. It has the appearance of a rounded tumor on the stem. It can have a different configuration, the dimensions can differ significantly. In some, a polyp is the size of a grain of millet, in others the pathology reaches the size of a large cherry. Color is also very different: from dark red, cherry to blue. Blood is excreted by blowing, coughing, light touch, sharp movements, sneezing. Sometimes they begin to bleed spontaneously, for no apparent reason.
Runny nose and polyps in the nose
With polyps in the nose very often develops a prolonged, not passing cold, which can not be treated by conventional methods. This is because the cause is a strong inflammatory process, covering the mucous membrane. The infection often joins. Sometimes an allergic reaction leads to the formation of a cold.
Treatment is predominantly etiological, that is, aimed at eliminating the underlying cause - the polyp. Often resort to radical methods. The inflamed and hypertrophied tissue is removed by surgical methods. After the mucosa is restored, the condition of the nose is normalized, it is possible to resort to the treatment of the nose with conservative methods. Often, treatment is not even required: the rhinitis passes by itself after the cause of its occurrence has been eliminated.
Polyp in the nose and temperature
Temperature is always a sign of the inflammatory process. Probably, inflammation of the polyp or surrounding tissues occurred. The temperature can also be caused by infection, activation of a persistent or sluggish viral infection, dysbiosis. Treatment is etiologic, that is, it should be aimed at eliminating the inflammatory process, the causes of the appearance of temperature.
Inflammation of polyps nose
Polyps have a tendency to become inflamed when there is an infectious or inflammatory process in the body. The inflammatory process can affect only the polyp, or surrounding tissue and the sinus in which it is located.
If the inflammation captures the sphenoid sinus and the polyp in it, sphenoiditis develops. When the maxillary sinuses are affected, sinusitis develops. If it proceeds with the involvement of the frontal sinuses, the frontitis develops, when inflammation is localized in the latticed labyrinth, ethmoiditis develops.
Inflammatory process can be subjected to one or more sinuses. Also, various forms of pathological process are possible. In acute form, the symptoms are pronounced. In case of recurrent - there is a recurrence of signs of acute inflammation after a certain period of time, most often, some time after the end of the course of treatment or a surgical operation. There may be a chronic form, in which there is an exacerbation after the remission of the acute form for some time.
Most often, chronic forms of inflammation are characteristic of polyps localized in the area of the maxillary sinuses. The exacerbation usually lasts at least 2-3 months, even with good treatment.
Signs of inflammation of polyps are discharge from the nose, which are purulent, mucous in nature. Sometimes there are discharges of a mixed character. As the ducts and nasal passages become clogged, it becomes difficult to breathe, there is a swelling in the throat, reflex coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose can occur. Usually it is the accompanying symptoms, which only indirectly indicate the inflammation of the polyp. They do not require special treatment. It is usually necessary to treat polyps, and then, after the inflammatory process has decreased, both cough and a runny nose go away.
With a strong inflammatory process, especially if it continues for a sufficiently long period of time, a persistent headache may develop, the source of which is localized in the region of the nose, forehead, and eyes. There is a violation of the olfactory function. In the absence of treatment, the polyp begins to expand into the nasal passages. Often the cause of the development of inflammation is the virus. Especially often, viral inflammation is observed in adults. Also can be a consequence of diseases of the blood and teeth (the so-called odontogenic factor). It is especially pronounced in the inflammation of polyps in the maxillary sinuses.
In children, inflammation often develops against a background of reduced immunity, in which bacterial infection is activated. Often inflammations have a staphylococcal etiology.
Inflammation develops as a result of disruption of the basic processes in the nasal sinuses, which occur when polyps are present in them. Under normal conditions, microorganisms, along with particles of dust, air through the nasal passages, enter the caves of the sinuses. Usually they are neutralized there with the help of ciliated epithelium. Outward visible mucus is formed, which is discharged outside. The warmed and purified air passes further along the nasal passages, into the lungs. In the presence of polyps, the passage of air and the excretion of accumulated mucus outwards presents certain difficulties. It can accumulate in the nasal sinuses and passages, clogging them and interfering with normal functioning.
Treatment of inflammation of polyps is carried out conservatively. Vasoconstrictors, local antibiotics are used, especially with the development of a purulent inflammatory process. For rinsing, less often - rinsing the mouth, throat and nasopharynx. With a strong development of the inflammatory process, rinsing through the puncture of the wall is used. When the appearance of crusts, or excessive drying of the mucous membrane and skin, oil preparations are used. To remove inflammation, eliminate swelling, apply saline solutions for washing, moisturizing the mucous membrane.
The polyp in the nose came off
Cases when the polyp comes off, are known to modern medicine. The most common cause is trauma, mechanical damage. There is a profuse bleeding, because the polyp is a relatively independent, localized tumor. It has a leg through which it passes its own blood vessel. Most often, trauma occurs precisely in this place: the polyp breaks away from the leg.
This requires mandatory diagnosis, because the polyp can never come off perfectly smoothly. Always remain of it residual effects on the mucosa. They then develop recurrent polyps that grow from tissue debris as a result of their regeneration. The danger is not so much in the very recurrence (repeated growth), as in the possibility of its malignant degeneration, that is transformation into a cancerous tumor.