About Esthesioneuroblastoma (Olfactory Neuroblastoma)

Overview

Esthesioneuroblastoma, also known as olfactory neuroblastoma, is a rare type of cancer that develops in the upper part of the nasal cavity, specifically in the cribiform plate. It arises from nerve tissue associated with the sense of smell (olfactory nerve). Esthesioneuroblastoma accounts for about 5% of all cancers of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. It can occur at any age but is typically found in adulthood. Common symptoms include nosebleeds and loss of sense of smell. Diagnosis involves various tests to examine the nasal cavity. Treatment options for esthesioneuroblastoma depend on factors such as the stage and location of the tumor, and may include surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of both. The prognosis varies depending on individual factors and the extent of the disease.

Causes and Risk Factors

Esthesioneuroblastoma is a rare disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and division that damages tissue. The specific pathophysiologic causes of esthesioneuroblastoma are not well understood. It is believed that genetic mutations and alterations in certain genes may play a role in its development.

Risk factors:

Age: Esthesioneuroblastoma usually affects adults 50 years old and older; however, it can occur at any age, including in children and teens.
Genetic predisposition: There is currently limited information regarding specific genetic factors associated with esthesioneuroblastoma.

It's important to keep in mind that the understanding of esthesioneuroblastoma and its causes is still evolving. If you have any concerns or questions about esthesioneuroblastoma, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.

Symptoms

Common early symptoms of esthesioneuroblastoma include:

Epistaxis (nosebleeds)
Change in or loss of sense of smell
Trouble breathing through the nose
Nasal blockage
Headache
Bulging of the eye
Trouble seeing
Eye pain

It's important to note that esthesioneuroblastoma is a rare disease, and its symptoms can be similar to those of other common conditions, such as chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps. Therefore, an early diagnosis can be challenging. If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect esthesioneuroblastoma, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and appropriate management.

Diagnosis

To diagnose esthesioneuroblastoma, the following examinations, tests, and procedures may be performed:

Physical exam: Your healthcare provider will conduct a physical exam to look for signs of a medical problem, such as pain, swelling, or masses in the nasal and eye area.
Lab tests: Specific lab tests, such as blood draws, may be recommended to help diagnose the disease or other causes of symptoms. The type of lab tests ordered will depend on your symptoms and the diseases being considered.
Imaging studies: Your healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies like CT (computed tomography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), or PET (positron emission tomography) scan to obtain detailed images of your body. These studies can provide valuable information to aid in diagnosis, including location and size of cancer masses or tumors..
Nasal endoscopy: This procedure uses a thin tube-like instrument with a light and lens to examine the nasal cavity. It can help identify abnormal areas and obtain tissue samples for further analysis.
Biopsy: The healthcare provider may take a small sample of tissue from inside the nose to send to a pathology lab for analysis.

Additional examinations, test or procedures may be performed based on initial findings or individual factors. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider for specific recommendations tailored to your individual situation. They will guide you through the necessary examinations, tests, and procedures based on your symptoms and medical history.

Treatment Options

The goal of treatment for esthesioneuroblastoma depends on the stage of cancer. Treatment may aim to:

Be curative to remove all cancer cells
Slow progression
Manage symptoms or complications.

Specialists that may be involved with treatment include:

Surgeons: This may include surgeons who specialize in head and neck surgery or neurosurgery.
Radiation oncologists: These healthcare professionals specialize in providing radiation therapy for cancer.
Oncologists: These healthcare professionals specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer, including the use of chemotherapy and other medications for cancer.

Treatment may include the following, based on location and stage of esthesioneuroblastoma:

Stage A:

Surgery: Removal of the tumor is the main treatment. Radiation therapy may also be given if the tumor was not completely removed.

Stage B:

Surgery followed by radiation therapy: The tumor is surgically removed, and then radiation therapy is used to target any remaining cancer cells.

Stage C:

Chemotherapy followed by surgery: Chemotherapy drugs are used to shrink the tumor before surgery. Surgery may then be followed by radiation therapy.
Radiation therapy followed by surgery: Radiation therapy is given first to reduce the size of the tumor, and then surgery is performed.
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy given at the same time followed by surgery: Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used together to shrink the tumor before surgery.

Stage D:

Chemotherapy given before or after surgery: Chemotherapy drugs are used either before or after surgery to remove the tumor.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy is used to target both the primary tumor and any other areas where the cancer has spread.

The healthcare team can provide personalized treatment recommendations based upon individual factors.

Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.