Abstract
Nasal polyps (NP) are common benign degeneration of nasal sinus mucosa with a prevalence around 4% in the adult population. The causes are still uncertain but there is a strong association with allergy, infection, asthma and aspirin sensitivity. Histologically, the presence of a large quantity of extracellular fluid, mast cell degranulation and eosinophilia has been demonstrated. Typically the patients show nasal obstruction, anosmia and rhinorrhoea. Nasal endoscopic examination and CT imaging allow evaluation of the disease extention.
A combined medical and surgical treatment is recommended for symptoms control in preventing symptomatic NP recurrence. We will review the current knowledge in the pathogenesis and treatment of this complex disease entity.
Keywords: Nasal polyposis, rhinosinusitis, allergy, eosinophils, functional endoscopic sinus surgery, nasal obstruction, anosmia, aspirin asensitivity, Nasal endoscopic examination, hyposmia
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