Inverted Papilloma

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can access exceptional care for inverted papillomas. As a global leader in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For over a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for ear, nose and throat (ENT) and head and neck conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for complex specialty care according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ENT and head and neck conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists has pioneered many of the otorhinolaryngological techniques used today and is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety.

When you need inverted papilloma care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.

The exact cause of inverted papillomas is unknown, but they may be linked to viral infections, chronic inflammation, exposure to irritants, such as dust and aerosols, and tobacco use.

Many cases of inverted papillomas do not cause symptoms and are discovered during an evaluation for a separate health condition. When symptoms exist, they typically include:

• Decreased sense of smell or facial pain
• Drainage or post-nasal drip
• Nasal congestion or obstruction
• Nose bleeds

In rare cases, inverted papillomas can harbor a common form of cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Inverted papillomas will not metastasize to other areas of the body; however, they tend to be locally aggressive. Since they grow inward, inverted papillomas can cause damage to the bone around the sinuses, eyes or between the brain and the sinus if left untreated.

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, we use a variety of tests to diagnose inverted papillomas, including:

• Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis. During the nasal endoscopy, your physician will also obtain a tumor sample for evaluation.
• Diagnostic imaging: If an inverted papilloma is found or suspected, your physician will typically order a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These advanced imaging tools can determine if the tumor has damaged any surrounding bone or tissue.
• Nasal endoscopy: Used to identify tumors with an endoscope (a narrow tube with a small, flexible camera that passes easily through the nose and sinuses). Images of the inside of these cavities are viewed, magnified and evaluated.

Inverted papillomas usually do not resolve on their own and should be treated, or the tumor may cause damage to the surrounding bone and tissue. In most cases, surgery is performed using a minimally invasive procedure known as an endonasal endoscopy. This procedure enables the surgeon to visualize the tumor and remove the area where it attaches to the bone. Your surgeon can then treat the underlying bone to prevent the tumor from returning.