Sinonasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma synonyms

Sinonasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma (SNUC), also known as Undifferentiated Carcinoma of the Sinonasal Tract, is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that originates in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. It is characterized by the presence of undifferentiated malignant cells, which means they lack the typical features of specialized cells.

SNUC is a highly invasive and locally aggressive cancer that tends to spread rapidly to nearby structures, such as the skull base, orbit, and brain. It is often diagnosed at an advanced stage due to its nonspecific symptoms, which may include nasal congestion, epistaxis (nosebleeds), facial pain, and swelling.

The exact cause of SNUC is unknown, and there are no well-established risk factors associated with its development. However, some studies suggest a possible link between exposure to certain occupational hazards, such as wood dust, leather dust, and formaldehyde, and the development of sinonasal tumors.

Diagnosis of SNUC involves a combination of imaging tests, such as CT scans and MRI, and a biopsy to examine the tissue under a microscope. The histological examination is crucial for confirming the presence of undifferentiated carcinoma cells and ruling out other types of sinonasal tumors.

Treatment of SNUC typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Due to its aggressive nature, complete surgical resection is often challenging, and adjuvant therapies are necessary to target any remaining cancer cells. Prognosis for SNUC is generally poor, with a high risk of local recurrence and distant metastasis.

Research efforts are ongoing to better understand the biology of SNUC and develop more effective treatment strategies. Clinical trials exploring targeted therapies and immunotherapies are being conducted to improve outcomes for patients with this rare and challenging cancer.