Nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is common in

Nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is common in adolescent males. It is a benign but invasive tumor that should be detected and treated early. Its onset is related to genetics, hormone levels, and local vascular changes. The treatment is mainly surgical resection, with auxiliary drugs or radiotherapy when necessary.

1 Common population

Nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is mainly seen in adolescent males aged 10-25 years. This may be related to the increase in androgen levels during adolescence, which stimulates the growth of nasopharyngeal fibrous tissue and induces tumors. Genetic tendency is also a factor. Studies have found similar cases in some patients' families, suggesting that genetics may play a role in the onset of the disease.

2 Symptoms

Typical symptoms include nasal congestion, recurrent nose bleeding, and facial swelling. In the early stage, it may be only unilateral persistent nasal congestion, which gradually develops into intermittent or persistent nose bleeding. In severe cases, the amount of bleeding is large. As the tumor grows, it may also cause ear congestion, hearing loss, and even affect the appearance of the face. If these symptoms occur, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

3. Diagnosis

Nasal endoscopy and CT/MRI imaging are the main diagnostic methods. Nasal endoscopy can directly observe the location and extent of the tumor, and CT/MRI can further evaluate the size of the tumor, whether it has invaded adjacent tissues, and the preoperative vascular condition.

4 Treatment methods

Surgery is the preferred treatment option for nasopharyngeal angiofibroma. Common methods include endoscopic sinus surgery, open resection and vascular embolization.

Minimally invasive nasal endoscopic surgery: suitable for patients with small lesions limited to the nasopharynx, with less trauma and faster recovery.

Open resection: It is used for tumors that are large or have invaded surrounding tissues and can completely remove the tumor.

Preoperative vascular embolization: It can reduce surgical risks by reducing the amount of bleeding during surgery.

For some patients who are difficult to completely resect or have the risk of recurrence, adjuvant radiotherapy or drug therapy can be used.

5 Daily Attention

Regular follow-up is required after surgery to monitor whether the tumor recurs. At the same time, avoid strenuous activities and forceful nose blowing to prevent nasal bleeding. In daily diet, eat more high-protein and high-fiber foods and maintain a balanced nutrition to facilitate physical recovery.

Nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is a benign tumor, but it is locally invasive. Once discovered, it should be treated as soon as possible and an appropriate treatment plan should be selected. If adolescents experience repeated nose bleeding or pharyngeal discomfort, they should pay attention and conduct timely investigations to avoid delays in the disease and complicated treatment.