Nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are grape like growths of the skin mucosa that project into the cavities of the nose and paranasal sinuses Causes - exact cause is unknown Risk factors – person with chronic viral or bacterial infections have a higher incidence of nasal polyps. Allergies, asthma, chronic rhinitis, and chronic sinusitis

Types Antrochoanal polyps – single, unilateral and usually found in children, originate from maxillary sinus Ethmoidal polyps – multiple, bilateral and usually found in adults, originating form ethmoidal air cells

Clinical features Bluish, glossy projections in the nares – can exceed the size of grape Nasal congestion, nasal discharges (usually clear mucus), speech distortion Reduced ability to smell (hyposmia) Loss of smell (anosmia)

Management Medical management – Corticosteroid sprays or local injection of a steroid into the polyp Steroid used to reduce the size, prevention of recurrence and reduction of inflammation thus reducing swelling Antibiotics (amoxicillin or erythromycin) if infection present.

Surgical management Polypectomy – removal of polyps after nose is anesthetized, NASAL SNARE is slipped around polyp, which is transected and removed with forceps. Removal of polyp via CALDWELL- LUC OPERATION