Uncommon Presentations of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Report of Two Cases

Abstract

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a rare form of squamous cell carcinoma originating from the nasopharynx epithelium, exhibits a higher prevalence in southern China, Southeast Asia, the Arctic, North Africa, and the Middle East, with significant incidence in northeastern India, particularly Nagaland. Commonly presenting with nasal and otological symptoms, NPC diagnosis is challenging due to its diverse clinical manifestations. This case report highlights two atypical NPC cases: a 32-year-old female presenting with chronic headache and giddiness and a 22-year-old male with severe right-sided facial pain and trismus. Both cases underwent extensive diagnostic procedures, including imaging and biopsies, ultimately confirming NPC. Treatment involved radiotherapy and chemotherapy, resulting in significant symptom improvement. These cases underscore the importance of recognizing unusual NPC presentations to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, improving patient outcomes.