To recognize malignant sinonasal tumours and to properly describe the patterns of tumour spread.

Malignant sinonasal tumours are rare (3% of all head and neck cancer and 1% of all malignancies), but they are characterized by different histological subtypes (1); this feature reflects the large variety of the cell population normally present in the sinonasal cavities. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common subtype, followed by intestinal-type adenocarcinoma, minor salivary gland carcinoma, olfactory neuroblastoma, undifferentiated carcinoma, melanoma and lymphoma. Diagnosis of malignant sinonasal tumours is often late because these lesions tend to be asymptomatic or have nonspecific symptoms, such...

Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are complementary in the assessment of malignant sinonasal tumours. To correctly approach these neoplasms, the following points must be evaluated: 1. Tumour’s characterization 2.Bony involvement 3. Orbital involvement 4. Dural invasion 5. Perineural spread 6. Nodal disease 1.Tumour’s characterization The first step is the identification of the site of origin because it has prognostic significance; indeed, the epicentre of the lesion is related to the tumour spread pattern and, consequently, to the staging and treatment (3). The...

CT and MRI have complementary roles in the assessment and staging of malignant sinonasal tumours.

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