COMPREHENSIVE CLINICOPATHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF SINONASAL MASSES: A PROSPECTIVE STUDY OF 100 CASES

Objective: Sinonasal masses range from benign inflammatory polyps to malignant tumors, often presenting with overlapping clinical features. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management and improved patient outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the clinicopathological profile of sinonasal masses in a tertiary care center, emphasizing the correlation between clinical and histopathological diagnoses. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 100 patients with sinonasal masses at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, over one year. Detailed histories, thorough clinical examinations-including anterior and posterior rhinoscopy-and diagnostic nasal endoscopies were performed. Imaging studies and histopathological examinations were also conducted. Masses were categorized into non-neoplastic and neoplastic types based on histopathology. Data were analyzed for age and sex distribution, clinical presentation, and diagnostic discrepancies. Results: Out of 100 patients, 58% were male and 42% were female, with the highest incidence in the 31–40 y age group (19%). Non-neoplastic masses accounted for 51% of cases, while neoplastic masses comprised 49%, including 38% benign and 11% malignant tumors. Ethmoidal polyps (22%) and antrochoanal polyps (18%) were the most common non-neoplastic lesions. Capillary hemangioma (12%) was the most frequent benign neoplasm, followed by inverted papilloma (10%). Squamous cell carcinoma (7%) was the predominant malignant tumor. Nasal obstruction was the most common symptom (92%), predominantly unilateral (62%). Discrepancies between clinical and histopathological diagnoses were noted in cases of inverted papilloma and squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusion: Sinonasal masses present a diverse range of pathologies with overlapping clinical features, highlighting the necessity of histopathological examination for accurate diagnosis. Correlating clinical findings with histopathology is crucial for early detection and optimal management, especially in malignant cases.