Sinonasal nodular fasciitis: report of a case with USP6 rearrangement

Abstract

Nodular fasciitis (NF) is a benign myofibroblastic proliferation characterized by rapid growth, a self-limiting course, and USP6 gene rearrangement. Although it can arise in the head and neck region, very few cases of NF involving the sinonasal tract have been reported to date. Herein we report a case of NF involving the nasal cavity presenting as a polypoid well-defined mass causing obstructive symptoms in a male with a history of multiple local surgeries. Although the mass had an unusual clinical presentation, the histopathologic and immunohistochemical findings were consistent with NF. Fluorescent in situ hybridization performed with break-apart probes flanking the USP6 locus on chromosome 17p13 revealed the presence of USP6 gene rearrangement. The patient remained free of disease 124 months after surgical treatment. Considering its remarkably benign behavior despite its alarming clinical and histologic features, the distinction of NF from sinonasal malignant tumors is essential.