Sinus Cancer

Sinus cancer is a rare disease in which malignant cells form in the tissues of the paranasal sinuses (small hollow spaces around the nose) and the nasal cavity. While sinus cancer can form in any of the different types of paranasal sinuses, it usually first appears in the maxillary sinus. Causes of sinus cancer include exposure to particular workplace chemicals or dust, an infection with human papilloma virus (HPV), and smoking, with an increased risk for males over 40.

Symptoms include persistent sinus congestion or obstruction, pain, swelling of the face, eyes, or ears, tearing from the eyes, loss of vision, decreased sense of smell, tooth pain, frequent nosebleeds, fatigue, weight loss, or a facial or neck lump.

Treatments for sinus cancer include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination.