Nasal Polyps

Excerpt

Nasal polyps are benign, inflammatory, and hyperplastic outgrowths of the sinonasal mucosa. These lesions most commonly manifest in patients who have chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), which is why the term "chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis" (CRSwNP) is often used when discussing nasal polyps. These growths are also associated with other conditions, including aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), certain systemic vasculitides, and cystic fibrosis.

Polyposis represents an end-stage manifestation of poorly controlled allergies, with management of existing polyps only marking the beginning of treatment. Once polyps are addressed, local and systemic therapies targeting the underlying allergic etiology are crucial to prevent rapid recurrence. Symptoms range from asymptomatic to significant nasal obstruction, facial congestion, anosmia, ageusia, and rhinorrhea, all of which severely impair quality of life (QOL).