Nasal polyps

Question 1

What are nasal polyps?

Answer 1

Soft, painless, noncancerous growths on the lining of the nasal passages

Question 2

What are some possible causes of nasal polyps?

Answer 2

Non-allergic asthma
Allergy
Infection
Aspirin sensitivity
Nickel exposure

Question 3

What is a possible cause of nasal polyps in young patients?

Answer 3

Cystic fibrosis

Question 4

How do nasal polyps form?

Answer 4

1. Inflammation and oedema of the sinus-nasal mucosa
2. This prolapses into the nasal cavity causing obstruction

Question 5

Describe the histology of nasal polyps

Answer 5

Lined by respiratory or squamous epithelium, oedematous stroma containing mixed inflammatory cells +/- eosinophils

Question 6

How do nasal polyps present?

Answer 6

• Blocked nose
• Runny nose
• Reduced sense of taste or smell

Question 7

What investigation is required to diagnose nasal polyps?

Answer 7

Nasoendoscopy

Question 8

What is shown?

Answer 8

Nasal polyp

Question 9

How are nasal polyps managed?

Answer 9

• Treat with oral then topical steroids
• If the polyps are large or unresponsive surgical removal is necessary