The diagnosis and surgical management of olfactory neuroblastoma: the role of craniofacial resection

Abstract

The diagnosis and clinical management of olfactory neuroblastoma are discussed. Computerized tomography is a valuable means of assessing the pre-operative extent of disease and the efficacy of subsequent major surgery. The tissue diagnosis is facilitated by electron microscopy, demonstrating the presence of dense core vesicles and cytoplasmic filaments. Radiotherapy followed by craniofacial resection is the treatment of choice for olfactory neuroblastomas that are locally extensive at presentation.