OVERVIEW

Which part is the nasal vestibule in nasal vestibular cancer?

The nasal vestibule refers to the wider area at the front of the nasal cavity where nasal hair grows. Its "front door" is the nostril, and its "back door" is the nasal valve. Simply put, the space your index finger can reach when picking your nose is the nasal vestibule.

What is nasal vestibular cancer?

Nasal vestibular cancer is a malignant tumor originating from the nasal vestibule, presenting as ulcers or masses in the nasal cavity, possibly accompanied by nosebleeds. Most pathological examinations of nasal vestibular cancer reveal squamous cell carcinoma.

Nasal vestibular cancer is extremely rare, primarily affecting individuals over 60 years old, with a higher incidence in males than females. Smokers are more susceptible to nasal vestibular cancer.

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms and manifestations of nasal vestibule cancer?

• Early stage of nasal vestibule cancer: Presents as skin erosion, ulcers, or masses inside the nasal cavity, accompanied by crusting, scabbing, and occasional minor bleeding that does not heal over time.

• Advanced stage of nasal vestibule cancer: The tumor may penetrate the nasal septum or invade the nasal alar cartilage, growing to the skin surface; it may also spread downward to invade the labiogingival groove and the soft tissues of the premaxilla; or it may grow into the posterior nasal cavity.

CAUSES

What are the causes of nasal vestibule cancer?

The exact cause of nasal vestibule cancer remains unclear, but certain factors may contribute to its development:

• Chronic inflammatory stimulation: Frequent nose-picking can damage the skin and mucosal barrier of the nasal vestibule, leading to nasal vestibulitis. Long-term, recurrent inflammation may trigger malignant transformation, resulting in nasal vestibule cancer.

• Frequent exposure to carcinogens: Long-term inhalation of heavy metals or their compounds significantly increases the risk of nasal malignancies, including nasal vestibule cancer.

• Recurrent benign tumors: Conditions like nasal papilloma or rhinoscleroma, though benign, are prone to recurrence. Repeated relapses may lead to malignant transformation into cancer.

• Weakened immune function: A healthy immune system monitors and eliminates tumors early. When immunity declines, this surveillance fails, allowing malignant tumors to grow.

• Smoking: Studies indicate smoking elevates the risk of nasal vestibule cancer.

Is nasal vestibule cancer hereditary?

Current research has not identified a hereditary link or significant familial clustering of nasal vestibule cancer, suggesting it is not inherited.

Is nasal vestibule cancer contagious?

No.

DIAGNOSIS

What tests might be needed for nasal vestibule cancer?

Diagnosis and staging of nasal vestibule cancer can usually be confirmed through nasal endoscopy, CT scans, and biopsy pathology examinations.

Which diseases have symptoms similar to nasal vestibule cancer?

Nasal vestibulitis, nasal furuncles, warts, and papillomas may resemble nasal vestibule cancer by causing skin erosion, bleeding, or masses in the nasal cavity, requiring differentiation from nasal vestibule cancer.

If any of these symptoms occur, individuals should seek prompt medical attention for professional evaluation and diagnosis. Some conditions may be difficult to diagnose visually even for experienced doctors, in which case a small tissue biopsy and pathological examination may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

TREATMENT

Which department should I visit for nasal vestibule cancer?

Otolaryngology, Radiation Oncology, Oncology.

How is nasal vestibule cancer treated?

• Early-stage tumor:

  • The tumor is usually localized. Radical radiotherapy is the preferred option because surgical resection may affect facial appearance. However, surgery can also be chosen if it does not impact aesthetics.

• Advanced-stage tumor:

  • The tumor has spread extensively, usually requiring a combination of surgery and radiotherapy.
  • Radiotherapy can be administered first, followed by surgery. This helps shrink the tumor preoperatively and reduce the surgical scope.
  • Alternatively, surgery can be performed first, followed by radiotherapy to minimize wound complications.

• Lymph node metastasis:

  • Patients with lymph node metastasis should undergo neck radiotherapy and/or neck lymph node dissection.

What are the side effects of radiotherapy for nasal vestibule cancer?

Since radiotherapy for nasal vestibule cancer primarily targets the head and face, possible side effects include:

• Local skin damage: Symptoms include itching, peeling, erosion, exudation (fluid leakage), redness, and pain. Protect the skin during radiotherapy by wearing loose, soft clothing. Avoid adhesive tapes, iodine, alcohol, or other irritants on the irradiated area. Do not use alkaline cleansers like soap on the treated skin, and avoid sun exposure. Report any skin issues to your doctor promptly and avoid self-medication.

• Oropharyngeal and nasal pain/dryness: The mouth, throat, and nose contain secretory cells that maintain moisture. Radiotherapy can damage these cells, leading to dryness and discomfort. This side effect may be permanent, as there is currently no effective way to restore secretory function. Stay hydrated, maintain nutrition, and use moisturizing agents (e.g., saline sprays, lipid-based sprays) for symptom relief.

• Hair loss: Fortunately, radiotherapy-induced hair loss is usually reversible, though regrowth time varies.

• Other side effects: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia may occur. These could stem from radiotherapy or other causes, so report them to your doctor for evaluation and management.

What are the risks of surgery for nasal vestibule cancer?

Beyond common surgical risks (bleeding, pain, infection, anesthesia complications), additional risks include:

• Small tumor:

  • Complete resection is possible but may cause nasal defects, potentially affecting appearance if reconstruction is difficult.

• Large tumor:

  • Incomplete resection may require postoperative radiotherapy. Surgery can cause nasal deformities, and radiotherapy may further impair wound healing.

Surgeons carefully balance tumor removal and aesthetic outcomes before proceeding.

Is follow-up necessary for nasal vestibule cancer? How often?

Yes, to detect recurrence early. Follow-up intervals: every 2 months in the first year, every 3 months in the second year, every 6 months in years 3–5, and annually thereafter.

Can nasal vestibule cancer be cured? How to prevent recurrence?

Some patients achieve complete cure, while others may experience recurrence, influenced by tumor extent and lymph node involvement. Even if recurrence occurs, successful treatment is often possible. No definitive prevention exists; adhere to follow-ups for early detection and intervention.

Can nasal vestibule cancer be fatal?

It can be fatal, but exact mortality rates are unclear due to the disease's rarity and limited research.

Does nasal vestibule cancer cause long-term complications?

The main complication is nasal deformity, affecting appearance.

DIET & LIFESTYLE

What should be paid attention to in daily life for nasal vestibule cancer?

• After surgery or during radiotherapy for nasal vestibule cancer, avoid touching the lesions inside the nose. Refrain from prolonged exposure to hot water when washing your hair or bathing, as this may cause bleeding in the affected area. Bleeding from tumor tissues is often difficult to stop.

• Avoid wearing masks for extended periods, as this can dry out the nasal cavity, worsen nasal discomfort, and may even lead to bleeding in severe cases.

• Quit smoking as soon as possible.

What dietary precautions should be taken for nasal vestibule cancer?

There are no specific dietary restrictions, but avoid excessively hot or spicy foods. Increase intake of fiber-rich foods such as vegetables and fruits to maintain smooth bowel movements and prevent excessive straining, which could lead to tumor bleeding.

Does nasal vestibule cancer affect fertility?

Nasal vestibule cancer itself does not affect fertility.

PREVENTION

Is there any way to prevent nasal vestibule cancer?

Currently, there are no effective preventive measures.

However, the nasal vestibule area is relatively exposed and easy to observe, allowing for early detection of tumors. If you notice any growths, recurrent ulcers, bleeding, or pain in the nasal vestibule, seek medical attention promptly. Avoid frequently touching or irritating the mass, and refrain from applying over-the-counter ointments, as this may worsen the condition or delay treatment.