A study of 15 patients with sphenoid sinus tumors

Objective: To perform a clinical study of sphenoid sinus tumors. Subjects and Methods: We retrospectively studied the outpatient and inpatient medical records of 15 patients diagnosed with sphenoid sinus tumors or referred to the International University of Health and Welfare, Mita Hospital Head and Neck Oncology Center for the treatment of sphenoid sinus tumors. Results: The 15 patients diagnosed with sphenoid sinus tumors accounted for 4% of the cases of malignant nasal tumors and malignant tumors at our hospital. Pain was the primary reason for seeking medical attention; however, patients were equally aware of other neurological symptoms. The histopathological images of the patients were diverse. The median tumor volume was 43 cm³, and all patients showed intracranial invasion. All patients received radiation therapy; none of the patients underwent surgery. The median survival time was 28 months (range, 3-82 months), the 3-year disease-free survival rate was 38%, and the 3-year disease-specific survival rate was 68%. Serious complications occurred in 2 patients. Conclusion: The selection of an appropriate therapy such as radiation and chemotherapy on an individual basis can help to prolong patients' survival time.