Nose cancer, also known as nasopharyngeal cancer, is caused by cellular mutations and is often associated with the Epstein-Barr virus and exposure to air pollutants. Symptoms include nasal congestion, ear infections, and nosebleeds. Treatment involves radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and complications can include metastasis and paraneoplastic syndromes.
Nose cancer is a malignant condition that affects the nasal cavity, or nasopharynx. Also known as nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC), cancer of the nose is started by cellular mutations within the nasal cavity. Several factors, including the Epstein-Barr virus, can increase the chance of developing nose cancer. Depending on the stage of the malignancy, a combination of anticancer therapies may be used to treat NPC.
Nasopharyngeal cancer is usually detected after the tumor is mature enough to trigger symptoms. Frequently forming in the back of the nasal cavity, the abnormal growth can be detected with the aid of endoscopic technology. A small flexible tube equipped with a miniature camera is inserted into the nasal cavity to evaluate the suspected tumor. If a biopsy determines the growth is malignant, imaging tests, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be done to evaluate its staging or severity.
As with so many cancers, there is no definitive, known reason for the formation of nasopharyngeal tumors. According to many medical organizations, including the Mayo Clinic, Epstein-Barr virus is a condition commonly associated with most nose cancer diagnoses. Regular exposure to air pollutants, such as cigarette smoke, also appears to increase the risk of developing nose cancer. Although the diagnosis is unusual in the United States, it is not uncommon for some individuals to demonstrate a genetic predisposition for developing nasopharyngeal tumors.
During early tumor development, individuals experience nasal congestion that they may dismiss as related to allergies or the onset of a head cold. Some people may suddenly become increasingly susceptible to ear infections or develop chronic headaches or tinnitus. As the malignancy matures, episodic nosebleeds may develop or the saliva may take on a bloody tinge.
If cancer of the nose goes undiagnosed or treatment is delayed, the individual is at significant risk of complications, including metastasis, which is the cancer migrating beyond the nasal cavity. Some individuals may also develop an overactive immune response to the malignancy. Known as paraneoplastic syndromes, these abnormal immune reactions can interfere with nervous system function and present in a variety of ways, including impaired cognition and muscle function. Treatment of paraneoplastic syndromes depends on the presentation of symptoms and generally involves the administration of immunosuppressive and anticonvulsant drugs.
Radiation therapy is an integral part of any treatment plan for someone with nose cancer. Administered directly to the tumor, radiation therapy can trigger a variety of side effects, including irritation at the site of administration. The tumor is rarely removed surgically. Depending on the staging of nose cancer, some individuals may also undergo subsequent chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. Given intravenously or orally, chemotherapy can also cause several side effects, including nausea, weight loss, and fatigue.
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