Isolated inverted papilloma of the sphenoid sinus: a case report

Inverted papilloma is a rare benign sinonasal tumor characterized by a potentially invasive nature. The lateral nasal wall represents the most common site of origin, whereas paranasal sinuses are frequently involved by extension. In contrast, primary sinus inverted papillomas have rarely been reported. The present study describes a 52-year-old man that presented with a one-year history of unilateral nasal obstruction, nasal discharge, epistaxis, occipital headache and decreased sense of smell. After nasal endoscopic examination, computed tomography was taken and endoscopic biopsy was performed which demonstrated isolated inverted papilloma of the left sphenoid sinus. Tumor was taken via transnasal endoscopic sphenoidotomy. No evidence for recurrent disease was seen after 12 months of follow-up and his symptoms were completely relieved. Endoscopic transnasal sphenoidotomy remains an effective treatment for these lesions.