Olfactory neuroblastoma – a rare tumour under the guise of chronic rhinosinusitis

Abstract

Olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB), also called esthesioneuroblastoma, is a rare tumour that occurs in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. The symptoms that patients report are similar to chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The authors present the case of a patient referred to hospital due to nasal obstruction on the left side. The performed endoscopic surgery revealed within the left middle nasal concha a tumour penetrating into the anterior ethmoid and frontal recess. ONB was diagnosed in the histopathological examination. The patient was qualified for complementary radiotherapy. The patient has been under medical supervision for 24 months. There have been no signs of recurrence. It was decided to present the above case due to the lack of deviations in the ENT endoscopy and minor ailments reported by the patient, which in combination with advanced age could lead to discontinuation of surgical treatment.