Metastatic renal cell carcinoma to the sinonasal cavity: a case series

J Neurol Surg Rep. 2013 Dec;74(2):67-72. doi: 10.1055/s-0033-1346972. Epub 2013 May 9.

Abstract

Objectives To describe the presentation, work-up, and management of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) to the sinonasal cavity and skull base, and to describe our current treatment algorithm of endoscopic surgical resection followed by radiation therapy. Design Retrospective review of two recent cases from our institution over a 1-year period, with a relevant review of the literature. Setting A large regional tertiary care facility. Participants Consecutive cases of RCC with metastases to the sinonasal cavity presenting to our institution. Main Outcome Measures Preoperative and postoperative sinonasal outcome test (SNOT)-22 scores, duration of hospital stay, complications, and local disease control Results Patients in this series underwent preoperative embolization followed by endoscopic resection without complication. Postoperatively they were treated with radiation therapy. They experienced improvement in their SNOT-22 scores and are currently free of local disease. Conclusion Metastatic RCC to the sinonasal cavity can be safely treated with preoperative embolization followed by endoscopic surgical resection and radiation therapy, which can result in improvement in sinonasal quality of life and is a potential adjunct for local control of disease.

Keywords: embolization; epistaxis; nasal obstruction; quality of life; renal cell carcinoma.