ENT

Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps are soft oedematous inflammatory growths that usually occur bilaterally and cause nasal obstruction and reduced smell; a unilateral or bloody/atypical mass is a different problem until ENT assessment excludes tumour or another local lesion.

Definition

Nasal polyps are soft, oedematous outgrowths of inflamed sinonasal mucosa that prolapse into the nasal cavity. They are usually bilateral and form part of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps; a unilateral mass is investigated as a separate condition until a localised lesion or tumour has been excluded.

First principles

Bilateral disease usually reflects diffuse sinonasal inflammation

Inflamed sinonasal mucosa can become oedematous and prolapse into the nasal cavity as pale, soft polyps. Bilateral disease is the usual inflammatory pattern and often coexists with chronic rhinosinusitis, asthma or sensitivity to aspirin/other NSAIDs.

You’ve reached the end of the preview

The rest of this extended textbook page is part of full access. Create a free account to read the sample topics in full and try sample questions, then upgrade to unlock every high-yield and extended page, plus the complete question bank.

This page is exam revision material, not medical advice, and must not be used for patient care. Always check drug doses against the BNF and current guidance. Full disclaimer.