A Rare Differential Diagnosis of a Nasal Tumor: Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Vascular leiomyomas or angioleiomyomas are rare tumors that can be found in the nasal cavity. The etiology of angioleiomyoma remains poorly understood and there are several hypotheses to explain the origin of sinonasal leiomyoma. We here describe the clinical and histological findings in a case study along with the feasibility of surgical treatment using a radiofrequency instrument. In particular, we describe the case of an adult patient with recurrent epistaxis because of a nasal angioleiomyoma and the performed treatment in the form of complete surgical excision. Radiological imaging is a helpful tool to give an indication of the extension of the tumor, as well as for the proper planning of the surgical approach. Either MRI or CT scans are found to be best suited for this purpose. This case report recommends the complete surgical excision of the angioleiomyoma, by either an endoscopic or an open procedure. This can be safely performed using a radiofrequency instrument as shown in this case with no recurrence during a follow-up of 12 months.