Olfactory neuroblastoma removed under endoscopic guidance

INTRODUCTION: Olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare tumour associated with high rates of recurrence and mortality. Treatment includes surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination. The ideal treatment modality has yet to be determined. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 46-years old male underwent bilateral endoscopic ethmoidectomy due to chronic sinusitis. During surgery, a 5 mm in diameter tumour was identified in the left superior nasal meatus. On histopathological examination the diagnosis of esthesioneuroblastoma was established and confirmed by immunohistochemistry. The tumour was classified according to Kadish as stage A, according to Biller as T1. MR scans performed two months later disclosed pathological tissues in the left ethmoid region. RESULTS: Multiple biopsies taken on subsequent frontosphenoethmoidectomy did not contain tumour cells. The patient declined radiotherapy. He has been asymptomatic over the 12 monthsi follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: The exclusively surgical treatment proved effective due to early stage of the tumour and no evidence of infiltration of the frontal skull base. This strategy, however, requires frequent follow-up visits.