Nasal and Paranasal Tumors

Overview

Your nasal passageway (cavity) separates your nose from your mouth and is responsible for allowing air to pass so you can breathe and for your sense of smell. The paranasal sinuses are the small hollow spaces around your nose, giving your upper face its shape and resonance to your voice.

Growth of abnormal cells in tissues of the nasal and paranasal areas lead to the development of noncancerous (benign) and cancerous (malignant) tumors. Because these are air-filled spaces, you may not have symptoms until the tumors have grown large enough to alter your ability to breathe through your nose or affect your sense of smell or your vision.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Expertise and experience. Mayo Clinic's experienced specialists and other health care professionals work together as a team to create a customized treatment plan for nasal and paranasal tumors, based on your unique needs. A special team of head and neck surgeons (ear, nose and throat), neurosurgeons, and other specialists are dedicated to the treatment of these tumors.
• Advanced technology. Mayo Clinic offers the latest technology, including minimally invasive (endoscopic) techniques, which avoid or minimize the use of external incisions, and stereotactic radiosurgery for appropriate candidates, which does not involve incisions.
• Comprehensive cancer center. Designated as a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute, the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center provides state-of-the-art care and treatment services, as well as education and research.